U-SHAPED MICROVASCULAR FIBULA FLAP FOR MAXILLARY RECONSTRUCTION AFTER LE FORT I AVULSION

Abstract

Our objective is to present the use of the U-shaped microvascular fibula flap (US-MFF) for posttraumatic maxillary reconstruction. The technique is indicated for full Le Fort I maxillary reconstruction. The fibula flap is cut into 3 segments. The first and third segments aim to reconstruct bilateral alveolar ridges as well as the zygomaticomaxillary buttresses. The middle segment is used to reconstruct the anterior maxilla. Flap is fixed with 2.0 mini plates and screws. A 20-year-old female patient involved in a jet ski accident presented full Le Fort I maxillary avulsion. Reconstruction was performed using the US-MFF technique. The procedure had no vascular complications and showed satisfactory stability. After 3 months, iliac free bone grafting was made to provide supplementary canine buttress width. The successful reconstruction of trauma victims is challenging, due to the extension of trauma and underlying social aspects. The US-MFF is a viable alternative for reconstructing extensive maxillary defects.