Are three-dimensional plates as effective as superior border plating in mandibular angle fractures? A comparative evaluation of effectiveness

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of three-dimensional (3D) miniplates over standard miniplates in the management of mandibular angle fracture. Materials and Methods: This study included 40 individuals who were diagnosed clinically and radiographically to have sustained mandibular angle fracture and subsequently underwent open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). All participants were divided randomly in to two groups. Group I included 20 patients who underwent ORIF for angle fracture with superior border plating using 2 mm 4 hole with gap miniplate while Group II included 20 patients who underwent ORIF with rectangular 3D miniplate placed through an intraoral incision in conjunction with the use of a trocar through percutaneous route for fixation of plate. Results: Patients who were treated using 3D plates had more pain on visual analog scale score and reduced mouth opening in the immediate postoperative phase. However, the stability at the facture site was superior to that of those treated by superior border plating. Conclusion: 3D plate was found to be standard in profile, strong yet malleable, facilitating reduction, and stabilization at both the superior and inferior borders, thereby giving a 3D stability at the fracture site and early return to normal function