Comparative Evaluation of 7 Fixation Plates in Mandibular Angle Fractures Using Finite Element Analysis

Abstract

Background: The finite element method is a used computational technique in obtaining detailed displacement of the fractured mandible with a fixation system. Objectives: The aim of the study was the evaluation of the biomechanical performance of different rigid fixation methods in mandibular angle fractures. Methods: Computed Tomography (CT) scans applied to prepare a model of the mandible with a mandibular fracture angle. The fracture line was fixed with 7 different fixation plates. The CT scans were transferred and converted to the finite element model. The commercial ANSYS software was applied to analyze the Von Mises stresses and the amount of displacement on bones, plates, and screws. 150-newton vertical force was applied to central incisors in order to simulate the most critical loading. Results: The maximum Von Mises stress values were found in the Champy technique with 474 Mpa in bones and 579 Mpa in screws, whereas the lowest Von Mises stress values observed in the square plate which was 180 Mpa. The minimum displacement observed in the Reconstructive plate & mini-plate which was 0.25 millimeters. Conclusion: The application of Reconstructive Plate & Mini-Plate, Dual straight mini-plates, Square Mini-Plate led to lower stress and displacement than other techniques in the bone, Plate, and screw.  Reconstructive Plate & Mini-Plate, Dual straight mini-plates, Square mini-plate offers more resistance and stability at the fracture site than other techniques used in the current study. This study was done based on the analysis of computer data. Clinical evidence showed that other procedures were used for many years with success. There are many other factors in the clinical application that have a critical role in stability.