Experience with the Wurzburg titanium miniplate system in maxillo-facial surgery.

Since late summer 1989 we have used the Wurzburg titanium miniplate system in the treatment of severe midface fractures and as implants in reconstruction of the mandible after cancer surgery of the mouth. The aim of this study was to test the applicability of the system.SUMMARYIn our opinion, the advantages and disadvantages of the system are:Advantages(a) Time-saving osteosynthesis due to the characteristics of the material, plate variety and instruments.(b) Intermaxillary fixation is often not necessary, which increases patient comfort and safety.(c) Quick rehabilitation through exercise-withstanding osteosynthesis.(d) Good biocompatibility.(e) Static free X-ray, CT and MRI.Disadvantages(a) High costs of the system.(b) Osteosynthesis sometimes requires a wider operating field.(c) Even a miniplate system sometimes gives unacceptable elevation of the skin in cranio-facial surgery.