18 Reconstruction of the Mandible

Abstract

Segmental mandibulectomy leads to a great deÞ cit in the form and function of the patient. Vascularised bone ß aps have become the choice of the method of reconstruction of the mandible in an oncologic setting. Fibula osseous or oseteocutaneous ß aps have become the favored method in centers across the world. This article reviews certain pertinent and practical points with regards to Þ bula ß ap reconstruction of the mandible. Methods of osteosynthesis, merits of inclusion of the FHL muscle in the ß ap and use of osteointegrated implants are discussed in detail. The reader will also be able at the end to understand the role of pre operative vascular imaging, steps taken when there is an irreversible ß ap failure and steps to maintain and rehabilitate occlusion as practiced in the author's service. KEY WORDS Fibula ß ap, mandibular reconstructionFree full text on www.ijps.org