Finite element analysis of mini-plate stabilization of human mandible angle fracture – a comparative study

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to analyze three patterns of mandible angle fracture treatment by means of the finite element analysis. Methods: Investigation has been based on the mandible geometry reconstructed with use of hospitalized patient CT data. The KLS Martin mini-plates with corresponding screws were used to establish proper fracture stabilization. Models were run assuming isotropic and elasto-plastic material properties of connecting devices and cortical bone. The main masticatory muscles and artificial temporomandibular joint have been incorporated to assure mandible physiological movement. The gage loading has been applied in three different locations to cover wider range of possible mastication loading cases during daily routine. A different contact conditions have been applied to the fracture plane to simulate both load bearing and sharing behaviors. Prepared FEM models reflect the most frequently used surgery’s approaches to mandible angle fracture treatment. A specific nomenclature has been introduced to describe particular model. The tension plate, with one connecting mini-plate, two-point fixation and combined fixation, both using two mini-plates respectively. Results: Performed analysis allowed for a detailed estimation of the mini-plate connection response under the applied gauge loading. The equivalent stress within the mini-plates and surrounding cortical bone have been compared between all models. Regarding the fracture plane, the contact status and pressure have been considered. Conclusions: The combined fixation model, acting as a biplanar fastener system, presents the highest flexibility and connection efficiency.