Journal of the Korean Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons

The Korean Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (대한구강악안면외과학회)
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TREATMENT OF MANDIBLE FRACTURES USING BIOABSORBABLE PLATES: PRELIMINARY STUDY

생흡수성판을 이용한 하악골 골절의 치료 : 일차보고

  • Kim, Young-Kyun (Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Pundang Jesaeng Hospital, Daejin Medical Center) ;
  • Kim, Su-Gwan (Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Oral Biology Research Institute, College of Dentistry, Chosun University)
  • 김영균 (대진의료재단 분당제생병원 구강악안면외과) ;
  • 김수관 (조선대학교 치과대학 구강악안면외과학 교실)
  • Published : 2001.12.30
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Abstract

This study evaluated the short-term outcome of treating fractures of the mandible with bioabsorbable plates. Thirty-four fractures of the mandible in 27 patients were treated by open reduction and internal fixation using bioabsorbable plates and 2.4-mm, 2.0-mm, and 1.5-mm pre-tapped screws. The duration of intermaxillary fixation ranged from 0 to 23 days, with a mean of 5.3 days. Patients were evaluated for complications during the follow-up period, which ranged from 2 to 18 months. Five patients(18.5%) experienced complications. These included infection (four patients), and premature occlusal contact(one patient). Except for one case, all complications were minor and adequately managed with incision and drainage, elastic traction, and medication. Delayed infection (osteomyelitis) developed in a symphysis fracture and was treated by saucerization and antibiotics. The fracture line subsequently showed complete consolidation. Bioabsorbable plates can be selectively used for internal fixation in mandibular fractures with the advantage that they do not need to be removed.

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