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Cranial bone graft to reconstruct the mandibular condyle in Macaca mulatta
T B Dodson1, R A Bays, R C Pfeffle
1Department of Surgery, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
Summary
Cranial bone grafts effectively reconstructed the mandibular condyle in nonhuman primates, maintaining joint function and facial symmetry. This method shows promise for mandibular condyle reconstruction in patients.
Area of Science:
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Regenerative Medicine
- Biomaterials Science
Background:
- Mandibular condyle defects require effective reconstruction.
- Autogenous bone grafts are a common reconstructive material.
- Cranial bone grafts offer potential for mandibular reconstruction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the efficacy of cranial bone grafts for mandibular condyle reconstruction.
- To evaluate functional outcomes and graft stability in a nonhuman primate model.
- To compare cranial bone grafts with other reconstructive options.
Main Methods:
- Mandibular condyle resection in eight Macaca mulatta.
- Reconstruction using autogenous, full-thickness cranial bone grafts.
- Rigid fixation and evaluation of joint function, facial symmetry, and occlusion for 1 year.
Main Results:
- Seven of eight monkeys survived the 1-year study period.
- No significant changes in maximal incisal opening, lateral excursion, facial symmetry, or occlusion were observed.
- Graft height showed a minimal average decrease of 0.7 mm, with no statistical significance (P = .07).
Conclusions:
- Full-thickness cranial bone grafts successfully reconstructed the mandibular condyle, yielding a functional joint.
- The cranial bone grafts demonstrated resistance to resorption.
- Cranial bone grafts represent a viable alternative for mandibular condyle reconstruction in non-growing patients.