A comparison of the stability of miniplate with bicortical screw fixation after sagittal split setback

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to decide whether use of bicortical screw fixation provides sufficient stability to dispense with intermaxillary fixation. STUDY DESIGN: Thirty consecutive patients who had undergone surgical setback of the mandible by means of bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomies were studied. Group 1 (15 patients) had miniplate fixation with intermaxillary fixation for 6 weeks, and group 2 (15 patients) had bicortical screw fixation and immediate postoperative function. The 2 groups were evaluated radiographically for postsurgical changes of pogonion in the early (6 weeks) phase. RESULTS: The results showed that there were no significant differences between the 2 groups. Overall, there was good stability in both groups. CONCLUSION: The use of bicortical screw fixation after sagittal split setback of the mandible provides sufficient stability to dispense with intermaxillary fixation.