Is the Mandibular Growth Affected by Internal Rigid Fixation?: A Systematic Review.

Purpose: The purpose of this systematic review was to evaluate, in animal model-based studies, whether there are mandibular growth alterations, after open reduction and internal rigid fixation with titanium plates and screws.

Methods: A literature search was conducted using the MEDLINE, EMBASE, and LILACS databases, up to and including August 2015. Surgical reduction and internal rigid fixation (IRF) of induced fractures were compared to non-invasive procedures, in order to investigate if there were alterations in the mandibular growth patterns.