Biomechanics of mandibular reconstruction: a review

Knowledge of the biomechanics of the mandible allows the surgeon to understand the forces acting on the mandible during function and the resulting deformation that can occur. This allows the appropriate selection and placement of osteosynthesis plates to neutralize these forces. Many methods have been proposed for mandibular reconstruction, each of which has strengths and weaknesses. Most papers evaluating these techniques have focused on survival rates and the quality of the grafted bones, and there have been few studies of the biomechanics (stress distribution and strength) of the various types of reconstructed mandibles. This paper reviews the biomechanics of the mandible and the various methods of reconstruction reported in past studies.