title: Mandibular reconstruction using the titanium functionally dynamic bridging plate system: A retrospective study of 34 cases.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  We sought to examine the use of the Titanium Functionally Dynamic Bridging Plate System (Howmedica Leibinger, Freiburg, Germany) for mandibular reconstruction after oncologic resection in 34 patients.
  
  
  METHODS
  A retrospective study of 34 patients who had mandibular reconstruction using the titanium dynamic bridging plate system for mandibular reconstruction after oncologic resection were evaluated. The indications and postoperative outcomes were studied. Our evaluation focuses on the tolerance and aesthetic and functional results of this system.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The follow-up ranged from 1 to 4 years. At the end of the study, 18 of the 34 patients (53%) still had the plate in place. One plate fracture and 1 plate exposure requiring surgical management were found. Surgical results were satisfying, particularly when looking at healing delay or long-term tolerance. Aesthetic (79% rated the results as good or acceptable) and functional results of this reconstruction material were satisfying.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  This reconstruction system provides a solution for a safe and rapid mandibular reconstruction for patients with a poor prognosis or poor general condition. This method also preserves the possibility of secondary reconstruction.
authors.affiliation: Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Hospital Purpan, Toulouse, France.
authors.forename: Raphael
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Lopez
authors.forename: Céline
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Dekeister
authors.forename: Ziad
authors.initials: Z
authors.lastname: Sleiman
authors.forename: Jean-Roch
authors.initials: JR
authors.lastname: Paoli
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001860:Bone Plates; D002294:Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / Q000532:radiotherapy / Q000534:rehabilitation / Q000601:surgery; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008334:Mandible / Q000601:surgery*; D008339:Mandibular Neoplasms / Q000532:radiotherapy / Q000534:rehabilitation* / Q000601:surgery; D008341:Mandibular Prosthesis; D019930:Mandibular Prosthesis Implantation; D008875:Middle Aged; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D014025:Titanium; D016896:Treatment Outcome
chemical_list: D014025:Titanium