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Updated: Jul 11, 2026
A Postoperative Evaluation Guideline for Computer-Assisted Reconstruction of the Mandible
Published on: January 28, 2020
Comparison of reconstructive procedures in primary versus secondary mandibular reconstruction
William N Andrade1, Joan E Lipa, Christine B Novak
1Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Background:
Few reports have compared reconstructive outcomes of primary versus secondary mandibular reconstruction.
Methods:
A retrospective chart review was performed on 149 patients following primary (n = 110) and secondary reconstruction (n = 39).
Results:
There was no statistically significant difference in patient demographics between the 2 groups. The secondary reconstruction mandibular defects were more extensive; significantly more involved the condyle or the central portion of the mandible. The vascularized fibular flap was most commonly used (primary 82%, secondary 69%). The overall complication rate was similar in both groups. There was no statistical difference in the frequency of complications between the primary or secondary reconstruction groups (acute, p = .40; late, p = .17).
Conclusions:
Success in secondary mandibular reconstruction could be achieved utilizing a range of osseous free flaps, and there was no increased rate of complications compared with primary mandibular reconstructions.