title: Transoral 2.0-mm locking miniplate fixation of mandibular fractures plus 1 week of maxillomandibular fixation: a prospective study.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  In this study, a 2.0-mm locking miniplate (LMP)/screw system was assessed in the treatment of mandibular fractures with a 1-week period of maxillomandibular fixation (MMF).
  
  
  METHODS
  Fifty mandibular fractures in 34 patients with a mean of 6.97 days of MMF were included in the study. The 2.0-mm LMPs were adapted along Champy's line of ideal osteosynthesis and secured with four 8.0-mm locking monocortical screws. All patients were followed for a minimum of 6 weeks. The incidence of soft tissue infections, nonunion, malunion, malocclusion, osteomyelitis, nerve injury, and tooth damage was prospectively assessed.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Primary bone healing was achieved in 98% of cases. Three complications (6%) were observed. Two minor complications of intraoral wound dehiscence and malocclusion were noted. A fibrous nonunion requiring 3 additional weeks of MMF was noted. No evidence of malunion, osteomyelitis, plate fracture, iatrogenic nerve injuries, or dental injuries was noted.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  A single 2.0-mm LMP placed along Champy's line of ideal osteosynthesis with four 8-mm monocortical locking screws plus 1 week of MMF fixation is a reliable and effective treatment modality for mandibular fractures.
authors.affiliation: Department of Dental and Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Kings County Hospital Center/SUNY Downstate Medical Center, NY 10128, USA. achritah@yahoo.com
authors.forename: Ayman
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Chritah
authors.forename: Stewart K
authors.initials: SK
authors.lastname: Lazow
authors.forename: Julius R
authors.initials: JR
authors.lastname: Berger
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001860:Bone Plates; D001863:Bone Screws; D002648:Child; D004867:Equipment Design; D005260:Female; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal / Q000295:instrumentation*; D006801:Humans; D019248:Jaw Fixation Techniques / Q000295:instrumentation*; D008297:Male; D008337:Mandibular Fractures / Q000601:surgery*; D008875:Middle Aged; D011446:Prospective Studies