Reconstruction of the mandible following benign tumor ablations: An audit of 20 cases

ObjectivesResections of benign tumors of the mandible result in continuity defects of varying span which can be reconstructed with either vascularized bone graft or non-vascularized bone graft with or without alloplastic materials. We documented the morbidities and outcomes of reconstructions of extensive defects of the mandible in a tertiary health center.MethodsAll consecutive patients were included. The extents of mandibular involvement were classified. Morbidities at both sites and take of grafts were assessed by clinical examinations and radiographic evaluation.ResultsA total of 20 patients with equal gender distribution were evaluated. Age range was 10–54 years, mean (SD) of 24.3 (10.9). Sixteen (80%) patients had ameloblastoma, and 2 (10%) keratocystic odontogenic tumor. Primary reconstruction with both autograft and alloplast was done in 14 (70%) patients and primary reconstruction with iliac bone graft in 6 (30%). The extent of mandible involvement was limited to one side of the bone in 2 (10%) patients. It crossed midline in 8 (40%) and it involved both sides of the bone in 8 (40%) patients.ConclusionWe had 65% success rate. To avoid the long operation time and cost of using vascularized grafts, we recommend that non-vascularized grafts are very useful in the reconstruction of intermediate to long span mandible defect.