Biomechanical comparison of the efficacy of Cfr-PEEK and titanium systems in the fixation following sagittal split advancement osteotomy: a biomechanical study.

BACKGROUND: This study evaluates the efficacy of carbon fiber reinforced Polyetheretherketone (Cfr-PEEK) in fixation after sagittal split ramus osteotomy (SSRO) by comparing it with titanium in vitro. METHODS: Twenty-eight sheep hemimandibles were randomly assigned to four groups for SSRO surgery. Fixation was performed with a 4-hole titanium mini plate for 5 mm advancement in Group 1, with a 4-hole Cfr-PEEK mini plate for 5 mm advancement for Group 2, with a 4-hole titanium mini plate for 10 mm advancement for Group 3, and with a 4-hole Cfr-PEEK mini plate for 10 mm advancement for Group 4. A linear vertical load of 50 N was applied to all models from the molar region. Displacement values were recorded digitally. RESULTS: There was a significant difference among the displacement values of four groups (p < 0.05). The highest displacement values were observed in group 2 and the lowest in group 3. The Cfr-PEEK plates' fixed groups showed lower displacement values than their titanium counterparts. CONCLUSIONS: According to this study, Cfr-PEEK provides better stability than titanium by considering the displacement values. However, future experimental and clinical studies that include larger samples and different designs need to be done.