Clinical study of resorbable plate and screw for treatment of maxillofacial fractures

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: This study evaluated the usefulness of resorbable plate and screw for treatment of maxillofacial bone fractures. PATIENTS AND METHODS: From july, 2000 to july, 2002, we used resorbable plates and screws(Biosorb. FX, Bionix Inc, Finland) on 126 patients for treatment of maxillofacial bone fractures. Among them, 80 patients were capable of periodic following up to present season. We evaluated these patients with clinical, radiographic findings and subjective satisfaction. RESULTS: 80 patients composed of 63 men and 17 women. Complication rates are 7.5%(6/80) recorded. 1 of bulging sensation, 3 of infection sign, 2 of the plate detachment were shown. The plates involved in such complications were removed. The other patients(92.5%) were not shown any problems. We could not find complete resorption of screw holes in the mandibular symphysis area even though two years later after surgery. CONCLUSION: Bioresorbable plates and screws are useful as fixation material at maxillofacial fractures although strength is thought to be weaker than titanium plate. But to reduce the possible complicaions, need to careful clinical and radiographical evaluations.