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L-shaped iliac crest flap: an effective solution for reconstructing Class I and II mandibular defects - a
Zhou-Yang Wu1, Zi-Yi Xiang1, Wen-Wen Li1
1State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China.
The L-shaped iliac crest flap effectively reconstructs mandibular defects, restoring facial aesthetics and function. This innovative approach shows high flap survival and minimal donor-site complications, offering a promising solution for mandibular angle repair.
Area of Science:
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
- Biomaterials Science
Background:
- Class I and II mandibular defects, often involving the mandibular angle, are prevalent.
- Existing reconstruction techniques struggle with mandibular angle restoration and present surgical difficulties.
- A simpler, innovative surgical method for mandibular reconstruction is needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of the L-shaped iliac crest flap for partial mandibular defect reconstruction.
- To assess flap survival, donor-site morbidity, and aesthetic/functional outcomes.
- To determine the potential of this technique in restoring the mandibular angle and facial contours.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 24 patients undergoing mandibular reconstruction with L-shaped iliac crest flaps.
- Evaluation of flap survival, operative details, and donor-site complications.
- Qualitative assessment of facial contour, intraoral morphology, occlusion, and bone height for implants.
Main Results:
- Achieved a high flap survival rate of 95.83%.
- Reported no major donor-site complications at a mean follow-up of 69 weeks.
- Demonstrated satisfactory restoration of mandibular angle contour, facial aesthetics, and bone height for dental implants.
Conclusions:
- The L-shaped iliac crest flap effectively reconstructs mandibular defects, addressing both body and ramus.
- It utilizes the iliac crest's natural contour to restore the mandibular angle's shape and fullness.
- This flap presents a potential future option for craniofacial aesthetics and function in mandibular repair, warranting further comparative studies.