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Bhatt W, Langford RJ J Oral Maxillofac Surg 2003; 61: 553–556

This retrospective study audited the incidence and causes of osteosynthesis miniplate removal over a 13 month period in a British hospital. The reasons for use of the plates during this period were trauma (225 plates in 119 patients), reconstructive and access surgery (47 in 24) and orthognathic surgery (36 in 10).

During the period, respective removals in 28 patients were 32, 12 and 7. Most plates removed were of titanium. Infection accounted for 43% of plate removal, dehiscence for 18%, pain for 12%, patient request for 10%, being palpable for 4% and paraesthesia for 2%. Most were removed within 1 yr, the longest duration being 7.5 yrs.

Factors not related to plate removal included gender and age. The authors state that small numbers of patients prevented them commenting on the previously reported increase in plate removal after orthognathic surgery in patients over 30 yrs old. They conclude that removal is indicated only when there is a justifiable reason.