These tools will no longer be maintained as of December 31, 2024. Archived website can be found here. PubMed4Hh GitHub repository can be found here. Contact NLM Customer Service if you have questions.


Pubmed for Handhelds

PUBMED FOR HANDHELDS

Search MEDLINE/PubMed

  • Title: A prospective trial of poly-L-lactic/polyglycolic acid co-polymer plates and screws for internal fixation of mandibular fractures.
    Author: Ferretti C.
    Journal: Int J Oral Maxillofac Surg; 2008 Mar; 37(3):242-8. PubMed ID: 18295449.
    Abstract:
    The aim of this study was to test the performance of poly-L-lactic/polyglycolic acid (PLLA/PGA) co-polymer plates and screws in the fixation of mandibular fractures. Following clinical and radiographic examination, internal fixation was achieved with PLLA/PGA co-polymer plates and screws in 31 patients. Elastic maxillomandibular fixation was maintained for 4 weeks and a blenderized diet for 6 weeks. Patients were followed up at 1 week, 6 weeks, and 3, 6 and 12 months post surgery, and evaluated clinically for swelling, pain, mucosal discoloration and occlusal relation. Segment stability, fracture healing and screw-hole ossification were assessed radiographically. Of the 29 patients who completed the trial, 20 had an uncomplicated postoperative period, resulting in complete bone union. Radiographic evidence of screw-hole ossification was noted in several patients, with considerable site-dependent rate variation. Nine patients developed complications ranging from minor dehiscence (4 patients) to frank sepsis requiring plate removal (5 patients), resulting in a 22.5% complication rate. There were no cases of non-union at the end of the fixation period. The reported complication rate following titanium internal fixation of mandibular fractures is 13.7%-43%. PLLA/PGA co-polymer plate and screw fixation of mandibular fractures, although technically more challenging and costly, is a viable alternative to traditional metal devices in selected patients.
    [Abstract] [Full Text] [Related] [New Search]