A COMPARATIVE EVALUATION OF TRANSBUCCAL APPROACH AND STANDARD INTRA ORAL APPROACH IN FIXATION OF MANDIBULAR ANGLE FRACTURE WITH MINIPLATE OSTEOSYNTHESIS

Abstract

Aim: This study aims to assess the difference in complications between transbuccal approach and standard intraoral approach following fixation of the MAF with miniplate osteosynthesis. Objectives: The objectives in treatment are to observe and accomplish anatomic reduction by fixation and to reinstate function with minimum disability and complications. Materials & Methods: Patients with MAF were divided into two groups (Group A, Intraoral approach; Group B, Trans buccal approach) who underwent ORIF (Open Reduction and Internal Fixation) using miniplate osteosynthesis (One 2.0 mm 4 holed miniplate with a bar using either of the two approaches). Intra-operatively, the surgical time and the ease of surgical access for fixation were evaluated. Patients followed at 1st week, 3rd month, and 6th month postoperatively and evaluated clinically for post-operative complications like infection, scarring, postoperative occlusal discrepancy, malunion, and non-union. Results: Radiographic interpretation of fracture reduction revealed statistical significance for group B as compared to group A. There were no cases of malunion/non-union. Significantly more occlusal discrepancy was noted in group A compared to group B at 1 week postoperatively. Occlusion and mouth opening was achieved in all patients 1 week after surgery. Lateral cortical plate fixation was seen to be more significant in Group B that is trans-buccal approach than Group A. Conclusion: Lateral cortical plate fixation via trans-buccal approach concludes as the easier and comparatively better method for the reduction of MAF than intraoral external oblique ridge fixation.