Bone supported arch bar versus erich arch bar for intermaxillary fixation: A comparative clinical study in maxillofacial fractures

Aim: Arch bars that are directly fixated to the maxilla and mandible with self-drilling locking screws combine features of Erich arch bars and bone-supported devices and present an alternative method of intermaxillary fixation (IMF) that possesses potential advantages over existing techniques. The objective of this study was to compare IMF using this device with Erich arch bars secured with circum-dental wires. Materials and Methods: A prospective cohort study was performed of patients who were surgically treated for maxillofacial fractures from the year 2015 to 2017. The primary predictor variable was fixation technique, which was IMF using Erich arch bars secured with circum-dental wires or stainless steel arch bars fixated with maxillary and mandibular screws. The outcome variables were complication rates, time necessary for device application and removal, glove perforation rate, and cost. Results: Out of 40 cases 20 were included in under Group A and 20 under group B. In group A patients were treated with Inter maxillary fixation with Bone supported arch bar and in group B with erich arch bar. Time taken for the procedure was more in group B and also more cases of needle stick injuries were seen in group B when compared to group A where such injuries are completely nill. Conclusion: Bone-supported arch bars may be a comparable alternative to Erich arch bars secured with circum-dental wires for IMF.