The feasibility of rib grafts in long span mandibular defects reconstruction: A long term follow up

To evaluate the efficiency of reconstruction of long span mandibular defects using split rib bundle bone graft.

Six hundred patients with long span mandibular defects (more than 6 cm long), following resection of aggressive mandibular tumours, were reconstructed with split rib bundle bone graft technique. Immediate reconstruction was performed in all patients. A reconstruction plate was used to support the graft. Two ribs were harvested from the right side of the chest, split into four halves and used to restore the continuity of the mandible. The inclusion criterion was post-surgical mandibular bony defects without soft tissue deficiency. Defects with a history of previous or need of future irradiation were excluded.

The appearance of the patients was accepted in 550 patients. Functional reconstruction was done in 320 patients by osseointegrated dental implants (after 15 months), and removable prosthesis in 150 patients. Infection was minor in 31 patients, moderate in 47 patients and severe in 42 patients. Partial loss of graft, up to 25%, due to moderate infection was reported. Total or near total loss of graft due to severe infection was corrected by reoperation six months later.

This technique is simple, safe, and can be effectively used to reconstruct long-span mandibular defects with minimal complications in selected patients.