Modern concepts in mandibular reconstruction in oral and oropharyngeal cancer

This article reviews literature pertaining to advances in oromandibular reconstruction in the context of a 30-year background of microvascular free tissue transfer, which still represents the current standard of care.

Most literature reiterates established patterns of reconstruction. Notable exceptions address these key areas: the use of computer-assisted modeling to more closely and efficiently design the excision of the mandible, to produce the template and to contour the fibula bone to fit the defect; the evolution of plating techniques to maximize the bony repair; distraction osteogenesis; tissue engineering; and optimal techniques for dealing with osteonecrosis, from both radiation and bisphosphonate use.

Osteocutaneous free flaps remain the standard of care. The fibula flap has emerged as the accepted favorite among these flaps. Evolution of fibula flap reconstruction constitutes a major portion of the current literature. Improvements upon free tissue transfer are currently elusive, largely due to associated radiation. Tissue engineering holds promise as the next plateau but is not yet readily applicable.