treatment of a mandibular fracture by two perpendicular mini-plates

introduction: in open reduction and internal fixation for the treatment of mandibular fracture, the fixation technique used is very important in reducing post-operative complications and promoting the healing process. this study assessed the results of fixation of the mandible using two mini-plates perpendicular to each other in the lower border of the mandible for fracture treatment.    materials and methods: access to the fractures was via an extraoral approach (through existing scars or incisions). after reductions of mandibular fractures, the fracture line fixation was accomplished using two mini-plates perpendicular to each other. one-week intermaxillary fixation (imf) was applied and 3 weeks of soft diet was recommended in the post-operative period. all patients were followed up for at least 1 year regarding infection and malocclusion.   results: twenty-five patients (28 fracture lines) underwent this technique. most (81.8%) patients were male and the mean age was 41.3±7.59 years (range, 17–73 years). symphyseal fracture (frequency, 52%) was the most prevalent followed by angle (32%) and body (16%) fractures. among the patients who underwent surgery, only one malocclusion and no cases of infection were observed. no cases [rachel1] of facial nerve weakness or damage were observed in this study.   conclusion:  this method can be used in specific cases to replace treatment with one mini-plate, which necessitates a more intensive fixation or reconstruction plate therapy.      [rachel1]please confirm