Operative Time Analysis of Miniplate Fixation of the Mandible

ABSTRACT

Our purpose in this study was to report and compare operating room times for the various methods of mandible fracture repair. We describe a methodology of treatment in selected patients, using efficient repair techniques; namely, miniplate fixation with four-screw mandibular occlusion. We report our outcomes in successful healing, occlusion, complications, and operating times. A retrospective chart review was performed of 68 patients suffering mandible fractures treated by various surgeons at a single institution. Miniplate fixation technique requires significantly less time in the operating room than other mandible repair techniques, including mandibulomaxillary fixation. Miniplate fixation technique is both an efficacious and an efficient means of repairing certain mandible fractures.

Mandible fractures - miniplate fixation - operative time

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