Analysis of Reconstruction of Mandibular Defects Using Autogenous Bone Graft and/or Metallic Reconstruction Plate

Mandibular reconstruction is important for providing good functional and cosmetic results after resection of the mandible. Mandibular reconstruction following excision of the mandible has been conventionally achieved by free bone grafting using autogenous bone, such as ilium or rib1). With the recent development of metallic plates for stabilization of the mandible, mandibular reconstruction with a combination of a metallic plate and a pedicled osteomyocutaneous flap or revascularized osteomyocutaneous flaps has been described for repairing defects following extensive segmental resection, unilateral resection, or hemiresection of the mandible2-4). Although mandibular contour can be reestablished by these methods, they do not always produce satisfactory results in the restoration of occlusion and masticatory function. This report describes our experience using various reconstruction procedures and the functional outcome is analyzed, with attention to associated early and late complication. Patients and Methods Reconstruction of mandibular defects was performed on 69 patients in our department during the 16 years from 1981 to 1996. The patient's ages ranged from 19 years to 72 years (mean, 53.3 years). The sex was 32 males to 37 females. Of the 69 cases, 43 were oral malignant tumors, sixteen were oral benign tumors, seven were odontogenic cysts and three were chronic osteomyelitis (Table 1).