A Novel Method for Lengthening Iliac Crest Grafts for Mandibular Reconstruction

The objective of this article is to propose a technique for mandibular reconstructions of up to 17 cm, in order to obtain anterior iliac crest grafts smaller than those required, and then lengthen them using corticotomies. This technique has been performed in 5 patients with an indication for reconstruction after partial mandibulectomy due to pathology. Reconstruction of the body of the mandible, including the angle in some cases, was performed using nonvascularized anterior iliac crest grafts. These were elongated using corticotomies and fixed to cover the defect using reconstruction plates and screws (2.4 system). The wedge spaces that were formed by lengthening the bone block were grafted with autologous medullary bone and platelet-rich plasma. There was no loss of any of the grafts and there was no need for second surgical times to place more grafts. All cases were able to be rehabilitated with removable prostheses or dental implants. This method optimizes the amount of graft obtained, favors revascularization of the graft, reduces hypoxia times and allows the placement of osteoconductive and/or osteoinductive grafts directly on the exposed medullary areas, with the aim of promoting integration and reducing the resorption rate in large grafts.