DefinePK

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate and compare the clinical outcomes of three-dimensional (3D) titanium plates versus conventional miniplates in the surgical management of mandibular angle fractures. Methods: This randomized controlled trial was conducted in the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at Abbasi Shaheed Hospital, Karachi in the duration from 11th January, 2025 to 15th June, 2025. A total of 60 adult patients with closed unilateral mandibular angle fractures were randomly assigned into two groups: Group 1 (3D plates, n=30) and Group 2 (conventional miniplates, n=30). Outcome measures included operative time, pain scores, postoperative mouth opening, and infection rates. Surgeries were performed under general anesthesia by a single surgeon using a standardized approach. Data were analyzed using SPSS v23, with independent t-tests and Chi-square tests applied. Results: Group 1 had significantly shorter operative times (44.0 ± 1.4 min vs. 54.5 ± 1.7 min; p < 0.001) and lower pain scores on both postoperative day 1 and day 7 (p < 0.001). Mouth opening on day 7 was clinically adequate in both groups, though slightly higher in the conventional group. Infection occurred in 6.7% of 3D plate patients and 16.7% in the conventional group (p = 0.42). No reoperations or hardware failures were reported. Conclusion: 3D titanium plates provide efficient, stable fixation for mandibular angle fractures, with reduced operative time and postoperative discomfort. Their use is supported by both clinical performance and alignment with international evidence, making them a viable alternative to conventional miniplates in appropriate surgical settings.