Mandibular Condyle Reimplantation and Free Bone Grafting: Considerations to Increase Its Efficacy.

Abstract

Mandibulectomy and disarticulation, resection of the lesion, and subsequent reimplantation of the condyle is a method to manage benign mandibular intraosseous lesions, involving the ramus but not extending to the mandibular condyle. This article presents some considerations to increase the efficacy of this method. Archived files of the patients that this method had been used for mandibular reconstruction were reevaluated. Patients were recalled and favorable and unfavorable results in reconstruction of the mandible with this technique were evaluated. Intact large segment of the condyle is necessary for success of this procedure. Inferior alveolar nerve anastomosis, coronoidectomy, concomitant free bone grafting with adequate width, and attention to the intraoral soft tissue incision design will decrease unfavorable outcomes.