Treatment of mandibular fractures by two perpendicular mini-plates

Introduction: in open reduction and internal fixation for the treatment of mandibular fracture,the fixation technique used is very important in reducing post-operative complications and promoting the healing process. this study assessed the results of fixation of the mandible using two mini-plates perpendicular to each other in the lower border of the mandible for fracture treatment. materials and methods: access to the fractures was via an extraoral approach (through existing scars or incisions). after reductions of mandibular fractures,the fracture line fixation was accomplished using two mini-plates perpendicular to each other. one-week intermaxillary fixation (imf) was applied and 3 weeks of soft diet was recommended in the post-operative period. all patients were followed up for at least 1 year regarding infection and malocclusion. results: twenty-five patients (28 fracture lines) underwent this technique. most (81.8%) patients were male and the mean age was 41.3±7.59 years (range,17-73 years). symphyseal fracture (frequency,52%) was the most prevalent followed by angle (32%) and body (16%) fractures. among the patients who underwent surgery,only one malocclusion and no cases of infection were observed. no cases of facial nerve weakness or damage were observed in this study. conclusion: this method can be used in specific cases to replace treatment with one mini-plate,which necessitates a more intensive fixation or reconstruction plate therapy.