Are maxillomandibular fixation screws a better option than Erich arch bars in achieving maxillomandibular fixation? A randomized clinical study.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study is to see the efficacy of maxillomandibular fixation (MMF) screws with arch bars and to compare the plaque index in between 2 methods of MMF.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study is a randomized clinical trial. The study sample was derived from the population of patients who reported to Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Wardha, Maharasthra, India between October 2006 and September 2008 and who required MMF. The patients were assessed for the time required in minutes for the placement and removal of screws and arch bar. Postoperative stability after achieving the MMF of both groups was analyzed and the plaque that was accumulated in both groups was evaluated by using TURESKY-GILMORE-GLICKMAN modification of the QUIGLEY-HEIN plaque index. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS statistical software for Windows, version 8.0 (SPSS, Inc, Chicago, IL) using the χ(2) test and Student t test.
RESULTS: The average working time for placement and removal of MMF screws is 18.67 minutes and 10.20 minutes, respectively, and for arch bars is 95.06 minutes and 29 minutes, respectively. The mean value of plaque index in group I is 1.88 and in group II is 2.69. It signifies that plaque deposition was more in group II. No occlusal disturbance was seen in both groups. Incidence of MMF screws causing damage to tooth root is 5.81% and incidence of screw breakage was seen in 3.33% of patients.
CONCLUSIONS: Oral hygiene maintenance is better in patients with MMF screws than with arch bars with fewer complications and less operating time. Erich arch bars are the preferred choice in patients who require long-term MMF, because the screws start loosening after 5 to 6 weeks.

RCT Entities:   Population Interventions Outcomes