The mandibular retromolar area as a donor site in maxillofacial bone grafting: surgical notes

Bone harvesting from the mandibular retromolar area represents an attractive approach to obtaining corticocancellous bone blocks for reconstruction of a deficient alveolar ridge. Knowledge of the local anatomy, adherence to proper surgical techniques, and judicious use of appropriate surgical armamentarium are paramount to minimizing operative hazards. The objective of this article is to review pertinent surgical notes related to the safe harvesting of corticocancellous bone blocks from the retromolar area using a trephine bur technique.