Use of Miniplates in Parasymphysis Fractures : A Survey Conducted Among Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons of India

Aim of the study was to find out the number of miniplates used by Indian Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons for parasymphysis fractures. A survey was done among Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons of India at the 34th annual meeting of Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons of India. Four questions were given to each individual to find out their opinion regarding use of miniplates in parasymphysis fractures. Eighty-eight per cent of Indian surgeons were in favour of using intra-operative or post-operative intermaxillary fixation. Thirty-eight per cent responded in favour of using single miniplate for parasymphysis fracture instead of using two miniplates. Fifty-four per cent maxillofacial surgeons use various modifications depending on different conditions. Forty-two per cent of maxillofacial surgeons accepted that lower arch bar can be used as a tension band. Use of miniplates for the treatment of parasymphysis fracture varies from centre to centre and from surgeon to surgeon. Though miniplates are best used following Champy’s principle, still many surgeons use single miniplate. Arch bars placed for intermaxillary fixation can be used as a tension band, again eliminating the need for upper plate.     

Modified closed cap splint: Conservative method for minimally displaced pediatric mandibular fracture

Mandibular fracture in younger children is the most common facial fracture among all the facial fracture in the sequence of condyles followed by symphysis/parasymphysis and body of the mandible. Symphysis/Parasymphysis fracture of mandible can be minimally displaced or severely displaced depending upon the severity of the injury. This case report highlights the simple, reliable method of minimally displaced fracture i.e. modified closed cap splint for stability of the fracture segments in pediatric patients.     

Comparison of circummandibular wiring with resorbable bone plates in pediatric mandibular fractures

Pediatric patients present a unique challenge to maxillofacial surgeons in terms of their treatment planning as well as in their functional and nutritional needs which are different from that of adult patients. Early literature has advocated conservative closed management of pediatric fractures to prevent complications. However recent advances in maxillofacial surgery has enabled us to use biodegradable plates and screws, which overcomes the limitations of metallic plates. We present a comparison of two cases of parasymphysis fracture treated with circum-mandibular wiring and biodegradable plate fixation their outcome in terms of fracture healing and functional stability.     

Management of mandibular fractures

Background: To evaluate the cases of mandibular fractures treated by open reduction and rigid fixation at the Armed Forces Medical College, Pune.