Reconstruction Of Large Mandibular Defects Research Articles

Three-dimensional printed titanium mesh combined with iliac cancellous bone in the reconstruction of mandibular defects secondary to ameloblastoma resection

BackgroundThe reconstruction of large mandibular defects is a challenge, and free vascularized bone flaps are most commonly used. However, the precision and symmetry of this repair are deficient, and patients have a risk of vascular embolism, flap necrosis, and donor site complications. Therefore, to explore an ideal alternative in mandibular reconstruction with high surgical accuracy and low complications is indispensable.MethodsSeven patients with recurrent or large-scope ameloblastoma were enrolled in this study. All patients were provided with a fully digital treatment plan, including the design of osteotomy lines, surgical guides, and three-dimensional printed titanium mesh for implantation. With the assistance of surgical guide, ameloblastomas were resected, and custom 3D printed titanium mesh combined with posterior iliac bone harvest was used in mandibular reconstruction. A comparison was made between the discrepant surgical outcomes and the intended surgical plan, as well as the average three-dimensional deviation of the mandible before and after the surgery. At the same time, the resorption rate of the implanted bone was evaluated.ResultsAll patients completed the fully digital treatment process successfully without severe complications. Image fusion showed that the postoperative contour of the mandible was basically consistent with surgical planning, except for a slight increase in the inferior border of the affected side. The mean three-dimensional deviation of the mandible between the preoperative and postoperative periods was 0.78 ± 0.41 mm. The mean error between the intraoperative bone volume and the digital planning bone volume was 2.44%±2.10%. Furthermore, the bone resorption rates of the harvested graft 6 months later were 32.15%±6.95%.ConclusionsThe use of digital surgical planning and 3D-printed templates can assist surgeons in performing surgery precisely, and the 3D-printed titanium mesh implant can improve the patient’s facial symmetry. 3D printed titanium mesh combined with posterior iliac cancellous bone graft can be regarded as an ideal alternative in extensive mandibular reconstruction.

Long-term facial symmetry after pediatric mandibular reconstruction using the vascularized fibula free flap: A photogrammetric analysis

The fibula free flap is the standard of care in the reconstruction of large mandibular defects in pediatric patients, enabling adequate restoration of the facial contour. However, the unpredictable growth potential of the reconstructed mandible could influence the preservation of the initially restored symmetry over time. Being mindful of the importance of facial appearance during developmental stages, this study aimed to evaluate the long-term facial symmetry after mandible reconstruction using this technique in growing patients. A photogrammetric analysis of facial symmetry using the "Asymmetry Index" (AI) was performed from preoperative and postoperative frontal photographs in 17 pediatric patients (9 males and 8 females) who underwent mandibular reconstruction with the vascularized fibula free flap and had a minimum follow-up of 5 years. Comparisons between preoperative and postoperative measurements-as well as postoperative comparisons between condyle-reconstructed and condyle-preserved patients-were conducted. The mean follow-up was 76.9 (± 19.0) months (range, 60-120). The average age at intervention was 9.23 (± 3.8) years. Mean AI was 15.31 (± 1.81) preoperatively and 3.59 (± 0.97) postoperatively. Differences between preoperative and postoperative measurements were statistically significant in all the assessed parameters (p<0.001). Postoperative differences between the condyle-reconstructed and the condyle-preserved groups were not significant (p>0.05). No secondary procedures were required to enhance symmetry in the late postoperative period. Mandibular reconstruction using the vascularized fibula free flap provides adequate restoration of facial symmetry that could be predictably maintained throughout the developmental period in children and adolescents, regardless of the need for condylar reconstruction.

Semi-automated digital workflow to design and evaluate patient-specific mandibular reconstruction implants

The reconstruction of large mandibular defects with optimal aesthetic and functional outcomes remains a major challenge for maxillofacial surgeons. The aim of this study was to design patient-specific mandibular reconstruction implants through a semi-automated digital workflow and to assess the effects of topology optimization on the biomechanical performance of the designed implants. By using the proposed workflow, a fully porous implant (LA-implant) and a topology-optimized implant (TO-implant) both made of Ti–6Al–4V ELI were designed and additively manufactured using selective laser melting. The mechanical performance of the implants was predicted by performing finite element analysis (FEA) and was experimentally assessed by conducting quasi-static and cyclic biomechanical tests. Digital image correlation (DIC) was used to validate the FE model by comparing the principal strains predicted by the FEM model with the measured distribution of the same type of strain. The numerical predictions were in good agreement with the DIC measurements and the predicted locations of specimen failure matched the actual ones. No statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) in the mean stiffness, mean ultimate load, or mean ultimate displacement were detected between the LA- and TO-implant groups. No implant failures were observed during quasi-static or cyclic testing under masticatory loads that were substantially higher (>1000 N) than the average maximum biting force of healthy individuals. Given its relatively lower weight (16.5%), higher porosity (17.4%), and much shorter design time (633.3%), the LA-implant is preferred for clinical application. This study clearly demonstrates the capability of the proposed workflow to develop patient-specific implants with high precision and superior mechanical performance, which will greatly facilitate cost- and time-effective pre-surgical planning and is expected to improve the surgical outcome.

Esthetic and functional reconstruction of large mandibular defects using free fibula flap and implant-retained prosthetics - a case series with long-term follow-up

BackgroundThe reconstructive and rehabilitative management of large mandibular defects with basal continuity is challenging in many respects, especially in the vertical dimension. The free fibula flap is an under-utilised but efficient approach in this indication. The aim of this case series is to demonstrate its use and long-term success.Case presentationThree cases are presented, where the patient had a large bone defect (at least 5 cm in length and 1 cm in the vertical dimension), but the continuity of the mandible was maintained. Two cases were related to pathological fracture and one was a large defect due to oncological surgery. Vertical augmentation with free microvascularised fibula flap was carried out, followed by implant-retained prosthetic therapy. Clinical status has been followed up for 5 to 6 years, with special attention to the condition of the peri-implant tissues and any radiographically detectable alterations or complications. No complications occurred during the follow-up. Function and esthetics have remained unchanged throughout.ConclusionsFree microvascularised fibula flap reconstruction combined with implant-retained prosthetics allows a lasting functional and esthetic solution in the discussed indication.

Results of a Novel Technique for Increasing Bone Contact and Stability in Mandibular Reconstruction with Micro-vascularized Fibula Flap.

Reconstruction of large mandibular defects requires reestablishment of mandibular continuity with bone and soft tissue. The microvascularized fibula flap (MFF) has the advantage of providing both, with adequate length, low resorption rate, low infection risk and possibility of dental implant insertion. It can be adapted to mandibular defects in many different ways. This retrospective study will present and evaluate the results of the male-female joint technique for flap positioning and fixation. The technique consists of designing osteotomies on the binding edge of the MFF and recipient jaw, increasing bone contact from one to five faces. Patients submitted to mandibular reconstruction through this technique were included and evaluated regarding systemic compromise, complication occurrence as well as primary and long-term stability. Ten patients underwent mandibular reconstruction with the male-female joint technique. Sixteen joints were applied, and excluding an early loss due to vascular failure, all remaining 14 joints healed uneventfully. None showed signs of early or late mobility. Fitting the MFF through a male-female joint that provides greater bone contact may improve stability and reduce screw loosening and mini-plate removal rates.

Improving the biomechanical performance of screws fixation in a customized mandibular reconstruction prosthesis based on reliability measure

Background: The customized prosthesis is a new method for the reconstruction of large mandibular defects. The ability of dental rehabilitation to improve masticatory functions while maintaining the aesthetics of the main anatomy of the patient's jaw. But the most important problem with all custom prosthesis is the poor performance of screw fixation strength the connections at the bone-plate interface. Materials and Methods: This study was performed to investigate the effect of the number and layout of screws to improve the strength of the bone–prosthesis interface. Due to the inherent variability of input parameters, Analysis of the biomechanical performance of screw fixation strength, a probabilistic finite element method approach has been used. Random input parameters include mechanical properties of the cortical bone, cancellous bone, titanium alloy (Ti6Al4V), and bite force. The layout of the screws was designed in 6 models. Criteria for evaluating the biomechanical performance of screw fixation strength include maximum stress and strain of von Mises cortical bone around the screws. The Monte-Carlo method was used for finite element simulation. Results: The most critical screw in all models is screw No.1, which by increasing the number of screws and correcting the layout shape, the values of maximum stress and strain in the bone around screw No.1 has decreased by 26.7% and 46.3%, respectively, and increased the reliability of the screw connection performance by 25% and 28%, respectively. Conclusion: Finally, in the reconstruction of a large lateral mandibular defect by the customized prosthesis, the strength of the prosthesis to connect to the remaining mandible bone can be improved by increasing the number and modifying the layout of the screws.

Surgical benefit of mandibular morphometric analysis: A new tool to standardize mandibular reconstruction.

PurposeThe gold-standard for reconstruction of large mandibular defects is the use of free flaps of vascularized autologous bone with the fibula as the preferred donor site. The use of "custom cutting guides" for this indication is becoming increasingly prevalent. But cost of the procedure averages around 2,500 dollars per patient excluding treatment and entails selection criteria. We think it is possible to standardize mandibular reconstructions from an anatomical mean. The objective of this study was to perform a mandibular morphometric analysis in order to obtain a set of "mean" measurements, which can be used by all surgeons interested in mandibular reconstruction.MethodsWe performed a morphometric analysis consisting of three-dimensional mandibular reconstructions of 30 men and 30 women. Several reference points were set and defined to evaluate specific lengths and angles of interest. We conducted an intra and inter-sexual descriptive analysis of measurements obtained.ResultsWe did not identify any major intra-sexual differences within each group. The gonial angle is more open in women and the measurements characterizing the basilar contour are more prominent in men. We did not identify any differences in alveolar region parameters.ConclusionThe results of this study constitute a morphological tool for surgeons, from bone graft to free flap. These results also confirm us that the use of «custom cutting guides» for mandibular reconstruction may be excessive. It is pertinent to examine the value of "custom made" mandibular reconstructions since the differences observed are of the order of millimeters.

Long Term Follow-Up of Pediatric Mandibular Reconstruction With Human Transforming Growth Factor-β3.

Translating bone regeneration induced by recombinant human bone morphogenetic proteins from animal models to human patients has proven inexplicably inconsistent. This prompted us to test in 5 pediatric patients, an alternative osteoinductive morphogen, recombinant human transforming growth factor β3 (hTGF-β3), to reconstruct mandibular defects of such a size to preclude reconstruction with autologous bone. An osteoinductive implant of human demineralized bone matrix (DBM) loaded with 125 μg hTGF-β3 per gram of DBM was implanted into one defect, and 250 μg hTGF-β3 per gram of DBM in another. Thereafter in 3 patients limited amounts of particulate cortico-cancellous bone graft harvested from the posterior iliac crest were combined with 250 μg hTGF-β3 per gram of DBM. Patients were followed up for 3 to 6 years. Three patients achieved clinically significant osteoinduction, 1 patient with hTGF-β3 only, and 2 by combining hTGF-β3 with a small supplement of autologous bone. One patient with hTGF-β3 only and followed up for 5 years retains a viable reconstruction but has had sub-optimal bone regeneration. One patient had osteoinductive failure due to sepsis although the plate reconstruction remains viable. Recombinant human TGF-β3 initiates osteoinduction in humans and potentiates autologous bone graft activity allowing the reconstruction of large mandibular defects in pediatric patients.

Radical resection of giant ameloblastoma mandible with free fibula reconstruction: a case report and review of literature

The ameloblastoma is a rare odontogenic tumor of the oral cavity. It is slow growing, locally invasive benign tumor affecting mandible more than maxilla mostly in age group 30-60 years. It grows in bone and soft tissue causing facial disfigurement. Treatment is surgical taking wide margins. This case report describes the treatment of a 30-year-old female having right side jaw swelling since two years, fine needle aspiration cytology was suggestive of ameloblastoma. Right hemi mandibulectomy was done by head and neck surgery team and reconstruction was done by plastic surgery team using free fibula flap. The free fibula osteocutaneous flap is the most versatile and reliable option for microsurgical reconstruction of large mandibular defects.

Is Reconstruction of Large Mandibular Defects Using Bioengineering Materials Effective?

Clinical tissue engineering has revolutionized surgery by improving surgical efficiency and decreasing the risks associated with traditional bone graft procurement techniques. Compared with autogenous bone grafts, composite tissue-engineered grafts fulfill the principles of osteoconduction, osteoinduction, and osteogenesis and provide adequate bone volume for maxillofacial reconstruction with less morbidity. The present study aimed to demonstrate the effectiveness, as defined by our success criteria, of a composite tissue-engineered bone graft in the reconstruction of mandibular defects. We implemented a retrospective case series and enrolled a sample of patients with mandibular defects that had been reconstructed using allogeneic bone combined with recombinant human bone morphogenic protein-2 and bone marrow aspirate concentrate at our institution during a 5-year period. The success criteria were as follows: 1) bone union, defined as a homogenous radiopaque pattern continuous with native bone without mandibular mobility; and 2) volume of grafted bone adequate for implant placement, defined as at least 1.0cm (height) by 0.8cm (width). Clinical examinations and computed tomography scans were performed at 6months postoperatively. Descriptive statistics were computed for each variable. From 2014 to 2019, tissue engineering reconstruction was used in 31 patients with and 3 patients without mandibular continuity defects, for a total of 34 patients. The median follow-up was 6months. The mean length of the continuity defects was 5.5cm (range, 1.0 to 12.5). Of the 30 patients with mandibular continuity defects, 27 achieved success according to our criteria, with an average gained height of 2.12±0.64cm and width of 1.53±0.46cm. Of the 34 patients, 1 was lost to follow-up, and treatment failed in 3 patients. Although the use of autogenous graft remains the reference standard, the evolving science behind clinical tissue engineering has resulted in an effective treatment modality for complex head and neck defects with less morbidity and graft material equal to that of autogenous bone.

Computer Assisted Design and Analysis of Customized Porous Plate for Mandibular Reconstruction

BackgroundThe reconstruction of large mandibular defects using commercial available reconstruction plates often leads to complications. The application of computer aided design technologies together with advanced medical imaging (CT/MRI) is gaining increased attention in reconstructive surgeries. Studies have proved that implants with porous structures can effectively enhances the biological fixation of the bone. However, no study has been reported on the design and analysis of the customized porous mandibular reconstruction. ObjectiveThe objective of this study is to present an integrated framework model for the design and analysis of customized porous reconstruction plate based on the selection of implant design techniques. MethodIn this study two customized implant design techniques (mirroring/anatomical) are compared and the best design is selected based on the surface deviation. A 3D finite element analysis was performed on the selected implant design model to evaluate its biomechanical response under chewing conditions. ResultsThe finite element simulated results reveal that the designed porous plate can withstand the chewing load conditions and provides good stability. The maximum stresses developed on the reconstruction plate (360 MPa) and screws (122.90 MPa) are significantly less and within the failure limit of implant material. ConclusionBased on the results, it is recommended to use mirror design reconstruction technique in repair of mandibular bone which can effectively improve the stability and flexibility of mandibular reconstruction under chewing conditions.

Reconstruction of large mandibular defects using autologous tissues generated from in vivo bioreactors.

A significant clinical challenge in craniofacial surgery is the reconstruction of large mandibular defects. In this work, we demonstrated that vascularized tissues of large volume and custom geometry can be generated from in vivo bioreactors implanted against the rib periosteum in an ovine model. The effects of different bioreactor scaffold material on tissue ingrowth were measured. To minimize donor site morbidity, tissues generated from bioreactors filled with synthetic graft were transferred as either vascularized free flaps or avascular grafts to a large mandibular defect. It was demonstrated that synthetic graft in an in vivo bioreactor is sufficient to produce free tissue bone flaps capable of integrating with native tissues when transferred to a large mandibular defect in an ovine model.

Mandibular Nonvascularized Bone Grafts of Critical Sizes and Complex Warfare Defects With Interrami Intraoral Fixation.

The reconstruction of mandibular bone grafts of critical size complex defects and posterior segments malpositioned due to modern warfare injuries is a difficult, challenging task. The condition becomes even more complex if primary reconstruction is carried out inexpertly, which leads to severe disfigurement, rami mesial superior shift, tongue prolapsed, loss of speech, etc.A new interrami intraoral Kirschner wire fixation (IRIF) technique is presented for the reconstruction of large mandibular defects by nonvascularized iliac bone grafts. Twelve symphysis, parasymphysis, and lateral mandibular avulsed or chopped off with bone loss ranging from 5 cm to "ear-to-ear" rami defects underwent nonvascularized iliac bone block graft. A direct stainless steel wire fixation was carried out between bone blocks and original bone. Indirect rigid fixations were applied using a 2-mm horseshoe-shaped K-wire IRIF technique. Two complications were reported: one due to infection and the other due to the mucosa dehiscing where 2 cm of sequestrated bone was removed. The biomechanics (stress/strain distribution and strength) along the K-wire substitute the tension on the alveolar part of the mandible, creating a zone of resistance in the rami zone. This successful bone healing between the mandibular bone and the graft may have resulted from prolonged periods of sufficient stabilization during function of the mandible and bone graft function as one mandible unit during the healing period by IRIF. This new technique is quick, cheap, easy, and well tolerated by the patient for many months without complications and has been successful in modern warfare reconstructions of mandibular bone graft large defects.

To Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing or Not to Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing? Free Fibula Flap With Computer-Aided Technique for Mandibular Reconstruction

The purpose of this study was to analyze the accuracy of computer-assisted free fibula flap for reconstruction of large mandibular defects for benign tumors. Between December 2012 and January 2014, a total of 4 free osteocutaneous computer-assisted fibula flaps have been used in an equal number of patients for reconstruction of the mandible at the Division of Maxillofacial Surgery, Città della Scienza e della Salute Hospital, University of Turin. Inclusion criteria were large mandibular defects due to benign tumors. The computer-assisted fibula flap was chosen when 2 or more osteotomies were requested. Intraoperative complication, mean ischemia time, operative time, and morphologic outcomes were analyzed in all cases. After surgery, a postoperative computed tomography compared the virtual plan with the surgical results. All 3 flaps were harvested and transplanted successfully. For the free flaps examined in this work, no intraoperative complications were noted. Postoperative computed tomography showed high correspondence in terms of bone contour according to the virtual plan. The immediate and long-term morphologic results were satisfactory. Microsurgical mandible reconstruction using a computer-assisted fibula flap technique is the best available method to manage complex defects.

Mandibular reconstruction with different techniques.

Traumas, malformative or dysplastic pathologies, atrophy, osteoradionecrosis, and benign or malignant neoplasm can cause bone deficits in the mandible. Consequent mandibular defects can determine aesthetic and functional problems; therefore, being able to perform a good reconstruction is of critical importance.Several techniques have been proposed for mandibular reconstruction over the years. In this article, we present and discuss the evolution during the time of the methods of mandible reconstruction as well as pros and cons of each procedure on the basis of experience of 10 years in the maxillofacial department of the Catholic University of Sacred Heart of Rome.Free flaps represent the gold standard method of reconstruction of large mandibular defects: the fibula bone flap represents the best choice for large defects involving the arch and the mandibular ramus, whereas the deep circumflex iliac artery represents a valid alternative for mandibular defects involving the posterior region.In cases where free flap reconstructions are contraindicated, the use of regional pedicle flap combined with autologous bone grafts still represents a valid choice. Patients who are not deemed suitable for long and demanding surgery can still be treated using alloplastic materials in association with regional pedicle flap or, when adjuvant radiation therapy is needed, by simple locoregional pedicle flap. Finally, in selected cases, the bone transporting technique should be considered as a valid alternative to the more "traditional" reconstructive methods because of the extraordinary potential and its favorable cost-benefit ratio.

Autologously generated tissue-engineered bone flaps for reconstruction of large mandibular defects in an ovine model.

The reconstruction of large craniofacial defects remains a significant clinical challenge. The complex geometry of facial bone and the lack of suitable donor tissue often hinders successful repair. One strategy to address both of these difficulties is the development of an in vivo bioreactor, where a tissue flap of suitable geometry can be orthotopically grown within the same patient requiring reconstruction. Our group has previously designed such an approach using tissue chambers filled with morcellized bone autograft as a scaffold to autologously generate tissue with a predefined geometry. However, this approach still required donor tissue for filling the tissue chamber. With the recent advances in biodegradable synthetic bone graft materials, it may be possible to minimize this donor tissue by replacing it with synthetic ceramic particles. In addition, these flaps have not previously been transferred to a mandibular defect. In this study, we demonstrate the feasibility of transferring an autologously generated tissue-engineered vascularized bone flap to a mandibular defect in an ovine model, using either morcellized autograft or synthetic bone graft as scaffold material.

Vascularized Free Fibula Flap for Reconstruction of Mandibular Defects

Objective: To assess the versatility of vascularized free fibula flap in reconstruction of various defects of mandible. Study Design: Prospective study. Duration of Study: March 2009 to March 2012. Methodology: The study group consisted of 10 patients who underwent resection of mandible for various reasons and reconstruction of continuity defects using a vascularized free fibular flap. The mandible was resected for ameloblastoma in 4 cases, squamous cell carcinoma in 1 case, odontogenic keratocysts in 3 cases and ossifying fibroma in 2 cases. The type of reconstruction performed was primary in 9 patients in which osseous fibula flap was used and secondary in 1 patient in which osseocutaneous flap was used. Results: There were 10 patients which include 5 males and 5 females within age group of 20 to 50 years with mean age of 35 years. All flaps survived except in 1 patient who had donor site morbidity. Flap perfusion was seen immediately after anastomosis and was maintained throughout the follow-up period of minimum 6 months. All patients were kept in nasogastric feeding for 5 days and then began oral feeding and walking with some aid in 2nd week and became completely ambulant in 4th week postoperatively. Conclusion: In our study, we conclude that vascularized free fibula flap is a versatile option for reconstruction of large mandibular defects with its good quality and quantity of bone and ease of manipulation to restore the original anatomy of the mandible and permit implant based prosthetic rehabilitation.

Initial Experience With rhBMP‐2 Delivered in a Compressive Resistant Matrix for Mandibular Reconstruction in 5 Dogs

To document cumulative initial experience and long-term follow-up of the use of rhBMP-2/CRM for reconstruction of large mandibular defects (≥5 cm) in dogs. Retrospective case series. Dogs (n = 5). Medical records (October 1999-April 2011) of dogs that had mandibular reconstruction for defects/resections of ≥5 cm using rhBMP-2/CRM were reviewed. Signalment, preoperative assessment/rationale for mandibular reconstruction, surgical methods, postoperative assessment of the reconstruction (evaluation of occlusion), and complications were recorded. A definitive histologic diagnosis was obtained in dogs that had mandibular resection for mass removal. Long-term complications were determined. A minimum time frame of 2-year in-hospital follow-up was required for case inclusion. Mandibular reconstruction was successfully performed in all dogs' defects where gaps of 5-9 cm were bridged. Surgical reconstruction rapidly restored cosmetic appearance and function. All dogs healed with new bone formation across the gap. New bone formation was present within the defects as early as 2 weeks after surgery based on palpation, and new bone formation bridging the gap was documented radiographically by 16 weeks. Minor complications occurred in all dogs in the early postoperative period, and included early firm swelling and gingival dehiscence in 1 dog; late plate exposure in 3 dogs; and exuberant/cystic bone formation in 2 dogs (related to concentration/formulation of rhBMP-2/CRM). Two dogs had minor long-term complications of late plate exposure and a non-vital canine tooth; the plates and the affected canine tooth were removed. Long-term in-hospital follow-up was 5.3 years (range, 2-12.5 years); further long-term telephone follow-up was 6.3 years (range, 2-12.5 years). All owners were pleased with the outcome and would repeat the surgery again under similar circumstances. The efficacy and success of this mandibular reconstruction technique, using rhBMP-2/CRM with plate fixation, was demonstrated with bridging of large mandibular defects regardless of the underlying cause, and with excellent cosmetic and functional results. Complications were common, but considered minor and easily treated. The complications encountered revealed the importance of tailoring the use of BMPs and fixation methods to this specific anatomic location and indication.

Reconstruction of mandibular defects using nonvascularized autogenous bone graft in nigerians.

Objectives:The aim of this study is to evaluate the success rate and complications of mandibular reconstruction with nonvascularized bone graft in Ile-Ife, Nigeria.Patients and Methods:A total of 25 patients who underwent reconstruction of mandibular discontinuity defects between January 2003 and February 2012, at the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex, Ile-Ife constituted the study sample. Relevant information was retrieved from the patients’ records. This information include patients’ demographics (age and sex) as well as the type of mandibular defect, cause of the defect, type of mandibular resection done, source of the bone graft used, and the method of graft immobilization. Morbidity associated with the graft procedures were assessed by retrieving information on graft failures, length of hospital stay following surgery, rehabilitation device used and associated graft donor and recipient site complications.Result:There were 12 males and 13 females with a male:female ratio was 1:1.1. The age of the patients ranged from 13 to 73 years with a mean age for males 32.7 ± standard deviation (SD) 12.9 and for females 35.0 ± SD 17.1. Jaw defect was caused by resection for tumours and other jaw pathologies in 92% of cases. Complete symphyseal involvement defect was the most common defect recorded 11 (44%). Reconstruction with nonvascularized rib graft accounted for 68% of cases while iliac crest graft was used in 32% of the patients. Successful take of the grafts was recorded in 22 patients while three cases failed. Wound dehiscence (two patients) and postoperative wound infection (eight patients) were the most common complications recorded.Conclusion:The use of nonvascularized graft is still relevant in the reconstruction of large mandibular defects caused by surgical ablation of benign conditions in Nigerians. Precise surgical planning and execution, extended antibiotic therapy, and meticulous postoperative care contributed to the good outcome.

Transplantation of Human Dental Pulp Stem Cells: Enhance Bone Consolidation in Mandibular Distraction Osteogenesis

The main aim of the present study was to evaluate the capacity of stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHED) to enhance mandibular distraction osteogenesis (DO) in rabbits. A randomized controlled trial was conducted. Eighteen skeletally immature New Zealand white rabbits were divided into 2 groups, with 9 in the control group and 9 in the SHED group. The SHED were isolated, expanded, and characterized. Six million cells were transplanted into the distracted area during the osteotomy period. After a 4-day latency period, a total of 6 mm was distracted for 6 days. The newly formed bone was analyzed radiologically, histologically, and histomorphometrically at 2, 4, and 6 weeks postoperatively. Nonparametric analysis of variance (Kruskal-Wallis test) was used for data analysis, and P < .05 was considered statistically significant. The cell lineage was positive for the 2 mesenchymal stem cell markers tested (CD105 and CD166). More mature bone in the SHED transplanted group was observed radiographically and histologically. Histomorphologically, the percentage of newly formed bone after 2, 4, and 6 weeks was 18.41% and 41.53%, 31.68% and 59.78%, and 52.34% and 65.24% in the control and SHED groups, respectively. The difference between the groups was statistically significant (P = .012). The bone union and stage of bone maturity scores were significantly different between the control and SHED groups (P = .006 and P = .011, respectively). Our findings suggest that SHED can serve as an additional cell resource for DO enhancement in rabbits and might be a promising model for the reconstruction of large mandibular defects in human oral maxillofacial surgery.