Lag screw fixation of composite radial forearm grafts in the reconstruction of mandibular discontinuities.
OBJECTIVE
This report reviews the results of immediate mandibular reconstruction performed with unosteotomized composite osteocutaneous forearm flaps using a lag screw technique for stabilization of the bone graft.


METHODS
Six patients, reconstructed as described, were followed-up for a mean period of 21 months postoperatively (range, 13 to 36 months).


RESULTS
Good initial stability was achieved, and healing was uneventful. At radiographic examination 12 months postoperatively, bony healing without dislocation of the segments was found in all patients.


CONCLUSIONS
The lag screw technique provides good initial stability and allows functional stresses to be transmitted to the graft.
Jisander
S
S
Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospital, Lund, Sweden.
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000714:Anastomosis, Surgical; D001863:Bone Screws; D016025:Bone Transplantation / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D002294:Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / Q000601:surgery; D003766:Dental Occlusion; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D005542:Forearm; D006801:Humans; D019248:Jaw Fixation Techniques / Q000295:instrumentation; D008297:Male; D008334:Mandible / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D008339:Mandibular Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery; D008875:Middle Aged; D011859:Radiography; D011884:Radius; D016038:Skin Transplantation / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014945:Wound Healing