Modular endoprosthesis for mandibular reconstruction: a preliminary animal study.

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Biomaterials Science
• Veterinary Surgical Research

Background:

• Segmental resection of the mandible necessitates reconstructive solutions.
• Mandibular modular endoprostheses offer a potential alternative for reconstruction.
• Titanium alloys are commonly used in orthopedic and reconstructive implants.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and stability of mandibular modular endoprostheses in a preclinical setting.
• To assess the suitability of pigs and monkeys as animal models for this type of research.

Main Methods:

• Four pigs and four monkeys underwent segmental mandibular resection and received titanium alloy modular endoprostheses cemented with polymethylmethacrylate.
• Prostheses were evaluated for stability and integration over a 3-month period.

Main Results:

• The mandibular modular endoprosthesis demonstrated stability and firm fixation in three out of four pigs and all four monkeys after 3 months.
• One prosthesis failed in a pig, indicating variability in outcomes.
• Pigs were deemed unsuitable for further study due to anatomical differences (large, fatty medullary space) and handling challenges.

Conclusions:

• Mandibular modular endoprostheses show promise for reconstructive surgery of the mandible.
• Further investigation is required to validate the long-term efficacy and safety of these devices.
• Monkeys appear to be a more suitable model for future studies compared to pigs.