Introduction: The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of pre-adjusted three-dimensional (3D) plating system employing 3D printing with conventional 3D plating in the management of mandibular fractures.
Materials and methods: A randomised, clinical trial was conducted where the study sample (n = 20) was divided into two groups. In Group 1, 3D plate and in Group 2, pre-bent 3D plate was fixed to the fracture site. The parameters assessed were number of bends required for adaptation, duration of fixation, pain, occlusal stability, reduction in lingual splaying and post-operative complications.
Results: Statistically significant difference was seen for the number of bends required (P = 0.000, P < 0.01) and duration of fracture fixation (P = 0.001, P < 0.01). There was statistically significant difference between the values of pain during the adaptation of 3D plate (P = 0.033, P < 0.05).
Discussion: The application of pre-adjusted 3D plate is superior to conventional 3D plating in terms of reducing number of bends, duration of fixation and pain during adaptation.
Keywords: Mandibular fracture; open reduction; stereolithographic models; three-dimensional plate; three-dimensional printing.
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