Surgical difficulties, success, and complication rates of orthodontic miniplate anchorage systems: Experience with 382 miniplates

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the complications and success rates of the miniplates using both maxilla and mandible for orthodontic anchorage in growing patients.

Materials and Methods: One hundred and fifty‑five consecutive patients (range 8.7–13.8 years) with Class II and III malocclusion without congenital or acquired deformities were included in this study. A total of 382 titanium miniplates were placed by the same surgeon. All miniplates were inserted under local anesthesia. Loading of the miniplates with a force of 200 g with the help of elastics or functional devices were initiated 3 weeks after surgery.

Results: The overall success rate of miniplate anchorage in terms of stability was 96.8%. Twenty‑one patients reported irritation of the mucosa of the cheeks or lower lip after the surgery in the mandible group. Twelve miniplates needed to be removed and were successfully replaced.

Conclusion: Skeletal anchorage miniplates is effective for correcting malocclusions. Success depends on proper presurgical patient counseling, minimally invasive surgery, good postsurgical instructions, and orthodontic follow‑up.

Keywords: Miniplates, oral surgery, orthodontic anchorage