Mandibular reconstruction using a free vascularised osteocutaneous flap from the internal condyle of the femur.
The authors present a preliminary report of a new microsurgical mandibular reconstruction procedure using a segment of the internal condyle of the femur as a free vascularised bone graft. It is possible to harvest a compound flap including a bony segment measuring 8 X 1.5 X 1.5 cm and a cutaneous saphenous flap with its nutrient pedicle arising from the descending genicular artery and vein. This surgical procedure provides a good cortico-cancellous bony segment and a separate skin flap. Dissection of the flap is sometimes difficult due to the inconsistency of its vascular anatomy; the donor site is left with minimal morbidity but, because of weakening of the femur, our patients are instructed not to return to full weight-bearing before the sixth postoperative week. We consider segmental reconstruction of the mandibular body to be one of the best indications for the flap.
Martin
D
D
Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hôpital du Tondu, Bordeaux, France.
Bitonti-Grillo
C
C
De Biscop
J
J
Schott
H
H
Mondie
J M
JM
Baudet
J
J
Peri
G
G
D000328:Adult; D016025:Bone Transplantation; D001842:Bone and Bones / Q000098:blood supply; D005260:Female; D005269:Femur; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008338:Mandibular Injuries / Q000601:surgery*; D013524:Surgical Flaps / Q000379:methods*; D014948:Wounds, Gunshot / Q000601:surgery*