MatrixMANDIBLE preformed reconstruction plates--a two-year two-institution experience in 71 patients.

PURPOSE To evaluate handling, complication rates, clinical and treatment outcomes of the MatrixMANDIBLE Preformed Reconstruction Plates (MMPRPs), in particular with regard to the frequency of fatigue fractures and operative time. PATIENTS AND METHODS A cohort of 71 subjects with an indication for a load-bearing osteosynthesis of the mandible was enrolled in the present study. The indications for plate use were defects due to tumor, trauma, or osteonecrosis. The outcome variables were fitting accuracy, application time, and postoperative complications, defined as plate exposure, loosening of plates or screws, plate fracture, and orocutaneous fistulas. Additionally, the feasibility of a transoral approach was tested. RESULTS The sample included 71 subjects with a mean age of 54.8 ± 15.0 years, including 43 men (60.6%). MMPRPs could be placed in 70 of the 71 patients. In 10 patients a transoral approach for plate application was successfully performed. The mean time investment to contour the plates was 13.1 minutes. The fitting accuracies of the nonbendable sections were satisfying. No plate fracture was observed within an average follow-up period of 11.8 months. Postoperative complications occurred in 19 (27.1%) of the 70 patients. Plate removal was required in 11 (15.7%) of 70 patients. CONCLUSIONS The results of the present study suggest that the use of MMPRPs coincides with a reduced operative time and a minimized risk of fatigue fractures. Thus, MMPRPs seem to be a useful standard device in a scope of indications for load-bearing osteosynthesis of the anterolateral division of the mandible, additionally facilitating a transoral approach for application.