Dentate transport discs can be used to reconstruct large segmental mandibular defects

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Regenerative Medicine
• Biomaterials Engineering

Background:

• Reconstructing large anterior mandibular defects presents significant surgical challenges.
• Bone transport using distraction osteogenesis is a promising technique for segmental bone defects.
• Comparing dentate (tooth-bearing) and edentulous (toothless) transport segments is crucial for optimizing outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of a novel curved reconstruction plate for mandibular defect repair.
• To compare the quality and quantity of bone regenerate from dentate versus edentulous transport segments.
• To assess the viability of bone transport for large U-shaped anterior mandibular defects in canines.

Main Methods:

• A 70-75 mm anterior mandibular defect was created in 5 foxhound dogs.
• Trifocal distraction osteogenesis was performed using a bone transport reconstruction plate (BTRP-02).
• Simultaneous bilateral distraction utilized one dentate and one edentulous transport segment, with micro-computed tomography analysis.

Main Results:

• Successful reconstruction of the anterior mandibular defect was achieved in all subjects.
• Bone regenerate quantity and quality were comparable between dentate and edentulous transport segments.
• Regenerate bone density and volume fraction were lower than host bone, attributed to a short consolidation period.

Conclusions:

• Bone transport is a viable technique for reconstructing anterior mandibular segmental defects.
• Both dentate and edentulous transport segments are effective, providing surgical flexibility.
• This technique offers valuable reconstructive options for patients with compromised mandibles.