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Titanium lymph node pigmentation in the reconstruction plate system of a mandibular bone defect
K Onodera1, K Ooya, H Kawamura
1Department of Oral Pathology, Tohoku University School of Dentistry, Sendai, Japan.
Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, and Oral Pathology
|April 1, 1993
Summary
Titanium pigmentation, a rare condition, occurred in soft tissue and a lymph node two years after mandibular reconstruction using a titanium plate. This case highlights potential long-term effects of titanium implants.
Area of Science:
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Biomaterials Science
- Pathology
Background:
- Ameloblastoma treatment often requires extensive surgical resection of the mandible.
- Reconstruction of mandibular defects frequently utilizes titanium plates due to their biocompatibility and mechanical strength.
- Long-term monitoring of patients with titanium implants is crucial for identifying potential complications.
Observation:
- A 41-year-old male patient underwent partial mandibular resection for ameloblastoma.
- The mandibular defect was reconstructed using a titanium plate.
- Two years post-surgery, titanium pigmentation was observed in the soft tissue surrounding the plate and within a submandibular lymph node.
Findings:
- The case report details titanium pigmentation manifesting in adjacent soft tissues and a regional lymph node.
- This pigmentation is a consequence of the titanium implant used for mandibular reconstruction.
- The findings suggest that titanium particles or ions can migrate from the implant site.
Implications:
- Titanium pigmentation, though rare, can occur following reconstructive surgery with titanium implants.
- This phenomenon necessitates awareness among clinicians regarding potential aesthetic and diagnostic implications.
- Further research may explore the mechanisms and clinical significance of titanium particle migration and deposition.