Prefabricated Composite Tissues for the Reconstruction of Complex Maxillary Defects: Functional and Aesthetic Principles.

Abstract

The anatomical structures of the maxilla include the mucosa lining attached to the bone in a pneumatized "light weight construction" to support facial tissues and to provide physiological oral and nasal function. Therefore, the anatomically correct restoration of the maxilla in the case of "full thickness defects" still represents a barely resolved surgical challenge from a functional and aesthetic point of view. Since exactly similar tissues are hardly available for reconstructive purposes, reconstruction with various flaps remains highly accepted.As there is no clear evidence, that any reconstructive option is superior to another, the surgeon's preference remains the main factor determining the treatment of choice for maxillary defects.In order to provide for an anatomically correct reconstruction the concept of prefabrication of bone grafts accompanying soft tissues flaps could have a valuable option. This concept has been presented in the past but still has not gained wide acceptance. In this review paper, the authors will discuss the philosophy of our rational and approach, present details of the reconstruction to achieve improved functional and aesthetic results for full thickness maxillary defects based in almost 30 years of experience.