Evaluation of using microplates osteosynthesis for pediatric mandibular fractures

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate both clinically and radiographically using of two microplates in treatment of displaced pediatric mandibular fractures. Materials methods: This study included ten children had displaced mandibular fracture with age ranged between (4-11) years were treated using two microplates and microscrews through intraoral approach. All children were examined preoperative clinically and radiographically by panoramic view and computed tomography (CT) or lower occlusal view. All children were evaluated postoperative clinically at one week, one and three months for wound healing, occlusion, infection, nerve affection and stability of fracture and radiographically by panoramic view at second postoperative day, one and three months and by quantitative CT at one and three months to evaluate the accuracy of reduction and bone healing at fracture line. Results: Clinically there were no complications in all cases overall follow up period except for two cases showing occlusal discrepancy treated with guiding elastics. Radiographic results showed that good alignment of fracture segments horizontally and vertically without displacement and significant increase in bone mineral density gain after one and three months. Conclusion: Titanium microplates provide adequate stability for fracture segments in treatment of pediatric mandibular fracture. Low profile and malleability of microplates allow adaptation to mandible easily and minimize the possibility of trauma to teeth buds.