Custom-Made 3D PEEK for Fixation of Mandibular Angle Fractures.

Custom-Made 3D PEEK Plates Versus 3D Titanium Plates in Mandibular Angle Fracture Fixation: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

This investigation aimed to determine the clinical and radiographic efficacy of patient-specific, custom-made 3D PEEK plates in comparison with 3D titanium plates for the management of mandibular angle fractures.

Eighteen patients with recent mandibular angle fractures indicated for open reduction and internal fixation were randomly allocated into two groups. The study group (n = 9) underwent fixation with custom-made 3D PEEK plates, while the control group (n = 9) received prebent 3D titanium plates adapted on virtually reduced models. Follow-up extended to 12 weeks. Clinical parameters included operative time, postoperative occlusion, interfragmentary stability, wound healing, and bite force recovery. Radiographic evaluation was conducted using computed tomography scans acquired immediately postoperatively and at 12 weeks, assessing fracture healing and mean bone density.

Inclusion Criteria:

• patients with recent mandibular angle fracture adults without gender predilection who agreed to follow-up, fractures requiring open reduction and internal fixation, medically fit for general anesthesia

Exclusion Criteria:

• medically compromised patients, fractures with infection, pathological or old fractures, completely edentulous patients, comminuted fractures