AI Article Synopsis
- The study aimed to assess bone healing and resorption after using a free fibular flap for reconstructing the mandible in 112 patients.
- Most patients showed good healing of the fibular graft, but about 20% experienced nonunion in their new mandible after roughly 15 months.
- There was a notable reduction in height of both the native mandible and the fibular graft, but the overall bone resorption was minimal, indicating the effectiveness of the fibular flap for this type of reconstruction.
Article Abstract
Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate bony union and resorption after free fibular flap reconstruction for mandibular reconstruction.
Methods: A total of 112 patients with composite resection and reconstruction with a fibular free flap were included. Computed tomography scan images taken after the reconstruction and approximately 1 year postoperatively were assessed to evaluate union (n = 60) and bone resorption (n = 24) of the neomandible.
Results: Most of the fibulas healed well (n = 34) and there was radiologic nonunion in 20% of the neomandibles at the time of evaluation (mean = 15 months). There was a statistically significant reduction in bone height in the native mandible (p = 0.02) and the anterior part of the fibular graft (p = 0.02).
Conclusions: There was a statistically significant reduction in mandibular and fibular graft height. However, the bone resorption was clinically minimal. Sufficient maintenance of height and good bony union support the use of free fibular flap in mandibular reconstruction.
Download full-text PDF |
Source |
|---|---|
| http://dx.doi.org/10.1055/s-0033-1343953 | DOI Listing |
Publication Analysis
Top Keywords
Similar Publications
Want AI Summaries of new PubMed Abstracts delivered to your In-box?
Enter search terms and have AI summaries delivered each week - change queries or unsubscribe any time!