Technique for applying 2 miniplates for treatment of mandibular angle fractures

Abstract

When using Champy's method1 for the management of mandibular angle fractures, a separation of the fracture line and lateral displacement of the fragments at the lower mandibular border are often observed. In addition a posterior open bite on the side of the fracture is frequently observed immediately after fixation of the mandibular angle fracture at the superior border. To achieve primary intraoperative anatomic alignment and stable fixation of the fracture, a 2-miniplate fixation technique is used in which one plate is applied at the superior border and a second at the inferior border of the mandible.2, 3 and 4 However, application of 2 miniplates in the region of the mandibular angle through a transoral incision poses a technical problem because of difficult access and poor visibility. It may be that complications after the placement of 2 miniplates in the mandibular angle regions are closely related to this problem. The following report describes a technique to facilitate anatomic reduction and stable fixation with 2 miniplates, even in severely displaced mandibular angle fractures.