Maxillary Reconstruction with the Free Fibula Flap

Abstract

Alveolar arch defects can be reconstructed successfully using free fibula flaps. This procedure also allows for dental implant rehabilitation, which can improve the patient's appearance and oral function and enhance the overall quality of life. The fibula free flap transfer has a high success rate and low perioperative complication rate, making it an ideal choice for maxillary defect reconstruction.

Head and Neck Reconstructive Surgery

“…The osteocutaneous fibula flap can also be used for these defects. However, the challenge lies in aligning the skin paddles and the required bony osteotomies for the perfect fit (Futran et al, 2002;Peng et al, 2005). The advantage of using either of these composite vascularized bone flaps is that the intrinsic height of the bone allows good bony adaptation, which promotes union at the alveolus and zygomatic remnant, although the scapular bone is significantly thinner than the iliac crest.…”

Osteomyocutaneous peroneal artery perforator flap for reconstruction of composite maxillary defects

“…Functional and cosmetic outcomes can be improved with insertion of osseointegrated implants into the transferred vascularized bone to support the dental or orbital prostheses. 1,16,17,19,20 Among osteocutaneous free flaps, the fibula osteoseptocutaneous flap has numerous advantages and has, therefore, been widely accepted as a good option for maxillary reconstruction. [13][14][15][16][17][18][19][20] However, most previous maxillary reconstructions used the fibula flap with a single unit of bone and skin, which may not be suitable for reconstructing composite maxillary defects.…”

“…1 Extensive experience with osteocutaneous free flaps such as the scapula, radial forearm, iliac, and fibula flaps in mandibular reconstruction has translated into their use for maxillary reconstruction. [10][11][12][13][14][15][16][17][18][19][20] Composite osteocutaneous free flaps may provide bone reconstruction, as well as soft tissue coverage in a single-stage procedure. Functional and cosmetic outcomes can be improved with insertion of osseointegrated implants into the transferred vascularized bone to support the dental or orbital prostheses.…”

18 Reconstruction of the Mandible

“…[30][31][32][33][34] In case of failure A detailed understanding of the microvascular architecture and physiology is necessar y to understand the management of this flap and its components in the event of vascular compromise. In its normal state, the primary blood supply to the fibula i.e., two-thirds of cortical supply is via the medullary cavity in a centrifugal pattern of flow.…”