Comparison of Miniplate Versus Lag-screw Osteosynthesis for Fractures of the Mandibular Angle

Objectives: Treating mandibular angle fractures is common in maxillofacial surgery. The aim of this study was to compare lag screw fixation and miniplates.

Study Design: This retrospective investigation compared patients treated with miniplates (n = 24) and with lag screws (n = 21). Inclusion criteria were a solitary angle fracture without comminution or other reasons for load-bearing osteosynthesis. The main parameters for the outcome analysis were fracture gaps at 4 defined measuring points on postoperative radiography. Postsurgical complications were recorded.

Results: Fracture gaps measured in panoramic radiographs differed significantly between the lag-screw (average 0.56 mm) group and the group using 1 miniplate (average 0.85 mm) and 2 miniplates (1.40 mm). Miniplate fixation resulted in a wider fracture gap, especially in the region of the lower margin of the mandible.

Conclusion: Lag-screw fixation demonstrated smaller fracture gaps compared with miniplate fixation.