RECONSTRUCTION OF INTRAORAL JAW DEFECTS WITH CORTICOCANCELLOUS BLOCK OF MANDIBULAR SYMPHYSIS

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: This study evaluated the availability of mandibular symphysis corticocancellous block grafts in patients treated for reconstruction of intraoral jaw defects. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 8 patients with mandibular and maxillary bony defects were treated with corticocancellous block of symphysis. The types of defects included 4 pathologic jaw defects and 4 vertical and/or horizontal alveolar deficiencies. The age ranged from 13 to 45 years. Additional treatments such as plate fixation, alloplastic bony substitutes, and/or barrier membrane application were perfomred. They were evaluated for complications and healing of defects. Follow-up period ranged from 6 to 15 months. RESULTS: 2 patients experienced complications such as wound dehiscence and mild resorption of exposed bone. None of the patients needed secondary operation. Paresthesia of lip, chin, and teeth were recovered completely by 6 months postoperatively. Reconstructed wound showed favorable healing and bony consolidation. CONCLUSION: Corticocancellous block of mandibular symphysis can be used for the reconstruction of a variety of intraoral local jaw defects selectively. Advantages were easy fixation of graft, possibility of restoration of original alveolar contour, and decreased donor site morbidity.