Evaluation of mandibular reconstruction with free vascularized fibular flap

ObjectiveTo evaluates mandible reconstruction by free vascularized fibular flap with special emphasis on the immediate complications.MethodsThe clinical data of 63 patients were reviewed, 35 male and 28 female(age range 16 to 73 years). Aesthetic and functional outcomes were evaluated by follow-up and/or telephone conversation.ResultsAmong the 63 fibular flaps, 29 were osteocutaneous flaps with one or two skin islands. All the flaps were surviving well and the success rate was 100%. Long term donor site disability was not recorded for any patient. Thirty-one patients responded for aesthetic and functional evaluation, 20 cases(64.5%) reported their facial appearance as excellent or good, 11 (35.48%) felt fair; 14 cases (45%) could eat unrestricted diet, 17(55%) could eat soft diet; 21 cases were(67.67%) speech normal, 10(22.33%) speech intelligible.ConclusionFree fibular flap reflects good functional and esthetic results with a high degree of consistency, and acceptable level of complications, and we strongly believe the vascularized fibular flap is the first choice for mandibular reconstruction.