3D Finite Element Analysis of Displacement, Stress, and Strain in Mandibular Subcondylar Fractures: Comparative Study of Miniplate Osteosynthesis Techniques in Edentulous Model

Abstract

BackgroundCondylar bone fracture is a common facial injury that requires reliable and rigid fixation for proper healing. This study aims to evaluate various methods of using miniplates for the rigid fixation of subcondylar fractures.MethodsMimics and Geomagic software were utilized to simulate the mandible using a sample patient CBCT. Three distinct methods (single-, double-angulated, and double-parallel miniplates) were simulated for the fixation of the condylar fracture. Ansys Workbench was employed to conduct 3D finite element analysis for each method, examining the displacement, stress, and strain of the cortical bone, miniplates, and screws.ResultsThe data show that the most significant displacement of cortical bone (0.027mm), screws (0.0025 mm), and miniplates (0.0026 mm) occurs in the first scenario with single miniplate fixation. The highest stress distribution is found in the second (15-degree angulated double miniplates) and first scenarios, respectively, for each analyzed element. The lowest strain is reported in the second and third (double-parallel miniplates) scenarios.ConclusionIn conclusion, the third scenario (double-parallel miniplates) highlighted essential characteristics crucial for fracture healing across all evaluated parameters. Although various techniques for miniplate fixation exist, no single method stands out as the best, as this depends on the surgeon's expertise and the specific surgical context. Therefore, these techniques should be assessed in vivo and analyzed based on clinical scenarios and outcomes.