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Semin Plast Surg 2010; 24(2): 188-197
DOI: 10.1055/s-0030-1255336
© Thieme Medical Publishers

Reconstruction of Mandibular Defects

Harvey Chim1 , Christopher J. Salgado2 , Samir Mardini3 , Hung-Chi Chen4
  • 1Department of Plastic Surgery, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
  • 2Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Miami, Miami, Florida
  • 3Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
  • 4Department of Plastic Surgery, E-Da Hospital/I-Shou University, Kaoshiung County, Taiwan
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
21 June 2010 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Defects requiring reconstruction in the mandible are commonly encountered and may result from resection of benign or malignant lesions, trauma, or osteoradionecrosis. Mandibular defects can be classified according to location and extent, as well as involvement of mucosa, skin, and tongue. Vascularized bone flaps, in general, provide the best functional and aesthetic outcome, with the fibula flap remaining the gold standard for mandible reconstruction. In this review, we discuss classification and approach to reconstruction of mandibular defects. We also elaborate upon four commonly used free osteocutaneous flaps, inclusive of fibula, iliac crest, scapula, and radial forearm. Finally, we discuss indications and use of osseointegrated implants as well as recent advances in mandibular reconstruction.

KEYWORDS

Bone flap - condyle - fibular flap - mandible - osseointegrated implant - osteocutaneous flap

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Christopher J SalgadoM.D. 

Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine

Holtz Children's Center – ET3019, 1611 NW 12th Avenue, Miami, FL 33136

Email: salgado_plastics@hotmail.com

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