ORIF, load bearing plate

In chronically infected simple fractures, resorption at the fracture site or debridement of the fracture gap may result in a small continuity defect and loss of buttressing of the mandibular fragments. A load-bearing plate must be used to ensure primary stability at the fracture site and uneventful fracture healing, with or without bone grafting.

General guidelines for these procedures is given here:

• Load bearing fixation of chronically infected fractures with or without grafting

Symphysis fractures are rarely encountered in patients with severe mandibular atrophy.