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Updated: Jul 16, 2026
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A Postoperative Evaluation Guideline for Computer-Assisted Reconstruction of the Mandible
Published on: January 28, 2020
[Mandibular reconstruction with osseous free flaps: functional results].
A Bozec1, G Poissonnet, S Converset
1Département d'otorhinolaryngologie et de chirurgie carcinologique de la face et du cou, centre Antoine-Lacassagne, 33, avenue de Valombrose, 06189 Nice cedex, France. alexandre.bozec@nice.fnclcc.fr
Summary
Oromandibular reconstruction using fibula free flaps yields excellent functional outcomes, restoring speech and alimentation for most patients. This method is recommended for oromandibular defects.
Area of Science:
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
- Head and Neck Oncology
Context:
- Oromandibular defects often result from cancer resection or trauma.
- Restoring function and aesthetics after oromandibular resection is challenging.
- Osseous free flaps are a common reconstructive option.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the functional outcomes of oromandibular reconstruction using osseous free flaps.
- To identify factors predicting functional success in these reconstructions.
- To determine the efficacy of fibula versus scapular free flaps.
Summary:
- This retrospective study analyzed 67 patients undergoing oromandibular reconstruction with fibula (n=60) or scapular (n=7) free flaps.
- Functional outcomes included alimentation, elocution, mouth opening, and cosmetic appearance.
- Success rate was 89.6%, with over 50% achieving normal/subnormal function; 92.5% regained oral alimentation and intelligible speech.
Impact:
- Fibula free flap is identified as the preferred choice for oromandibular reconstruction.
- The study highlights the potential for significant functional recovery after complex reconstructions.
- Findings guide surgical decision-making for oromandibular defects, emphasizing flap selection and defect characteristics.