Primary Reconstruction of Mandibular Defects after Resection of Aggressive Pediatric Mandibular Tumors by Split Rib Bundle Bone Graft. A Retrospective Study

Abstract

Background: A retrospective study was done to evaluate the success rate of immediate reconstruction by split rib bundle bone grafting after segmental resection of Aggressive Pediatric mandibular tumors. Materials and Patients: The present study enrolled sixty-one pediatric patients with aggressive mandibular tumors that had been treated during the period from January 2008 to December 2018. All patients were examined clinically and radiographically by Orthopantomograms, CTs and CBCTs. Radical segmental resection with resultant mandibular continuity defects were thus created followed by immediate reconstruction with non-vascularized Split Rib Bundle Bone Graft (SRBBG). Patients were then rehabilitated by osseointegrated implants with fixed or removable partial dentures. Success of reconstruction was assessed by the percentage of complications, interincisal opening and patient satisfaction. Assessment was performed at 1,3,6 and 12 months postoperatively. All patients were followed up for 4-7 years. Results: Successful reconstruction was accomplished in 55 patients (90.16 %). Successful dental rehabilitation was accomplished in 49 patients (89%). Three patients had complete failure due to severe postoperative infection. Another three cases had partial resorption of the graft due to moderate infection to whom re-augmentation by another rib graft had been performed. Conclusion: Pediatric aggressive mandibular tumors should be treated in an aggressive manner relative to its biologic behavior and immediate reconstruction is advocated. The Split Rib Bundle Bone Graft is an adequate alternative for mandibular reconstruction in the absence of microvascular surgery as it shows early revascularization thus permitting rehabilitation with successfully osseointegrated dental implants.