title: Indications for the AO plate with a myocutaneous flap instead of revascularized tissue transfer for mandibular reconstruction.
abstract: Our preferred technique for mandibular reconstruction uses a revascularized osseomyocutaneous flap. However, to reconstruct small lateral defects in dentulous patients, the AO mandibular reconstruction plate (MRP) is used. Its advantages include quick, reliable placement without a donor site or the need for advanced technical training. This review examines 16 patients who underwent primary mandibular reconstruction after ablative oncologic surgery using an AO MRP without a bone graft. The average follow-up was 32 months. Twelve patients (75%) had successful reconstructions, while 4 (25%) developed serious complications resulting in failure of the MRP. The most significant factor limiting rehabilitation was disease progression, affecting 12 (75%) of the 16 patients. In this subgroup of selected patients with small (< 6 cm) lateral mandibular defects, useful dentition, and advanced disease, or whose general medical condition precludes prolonged general anesthesia, primary mandibular reconstruction using an AO MRP and a myocutaneous flap without a bone graft is a viable reconstructive alternative.
authors.affiliation: Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor 48109-0312.
authors.forename: M J
authors.initials: MJ
authors.lastname: Disher
authors.forename: R M
authors.initials: RM
authors.lastname: Esclamado
authors.forename: M J
authors.initials: MJ
authors.lastname: Sullivan
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001860:Bone Plates; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008334:Mandible / Q000601:surgery*; D008339:Mandibular Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery; D008875:Middle Aged; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D013524:Surgical Flaps / Q000379:methods