1998•PubMedRequires access
[The reconstruction of mandible and soft tissue defects with the osteocutaneous free fibula flap].
Li N, Ming Jia, Rongtao Yuan
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To find a new material to reconstruct the defects involving mandible and the surrounding soft tissues with the donor site morbidity mild and transient. METHODS: Ten consecutive fibula free flaps were used to reconstruct composite defect of mandible and soft tissue. The average length of the fibular graft was 9.1 cm, and the average size of the cutaneous-flap was 4.5 cm x 6.2 cm. RESULTS: 99mTcO4- scan demonstrated that 9 flaps were survivial (9/10) 2 weeks postsurgery. The function and the contour of the mandible were excellent. The donor site morbidity was mild and transient. CONCLUSION: Fibula has a high density of cortical bone. There is enough bone available to reconstruct mandible defect. The osteocutaneous fibula flap is a new material to reconstruct the composite mandible and soft tissue defects.