Mandible reconstruction.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this article is to review current microvascular mandibular reconstruction techniques and recent literature on the advances of tissue engineering as they relate to mandibular reconstruction.


RESULTS
Microvascular reconstruction continues to be the standard of care for complicated mandibular reconstruction in major ablative defects of the head and neck. Several recent modifications of current microvascular techniques offer significant improvement in the quality of reconstructions currently being performed. Advances in tissue engineering are currently not widely applicable clinically due to a number of factors; however, the technology offers promising advances in the management of mandibular continuity defects in the future.


CONCLUSIONS
Microvascular reconstruction of the mandible represents the most significant advancement in technique in the current era. Tissue engineering offers a promising future to improve outcomes and decrease patient morbidity. Future investigations regarding this new technology will provide information on the utility and feasibility of tissue engineering in mandibular reconstruction.
Miles
Brett A
BA
Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, University Health Network Toronto General Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Goldstein
David P
DP
Gilbert
Ralph W
RW
Gullane
Patrick J
PJ
D001860:Bone Plates; D016025:Bone Transplantation; D015921:Dental Implants; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal; D006801:Humans; D007083:Iliac Artery / Q000637:transplantation; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D008334:Mandible / Q000601:surgery*; D008337:Mandibular Fractures / Q000601:surgery; D008338:Mandibular Injuries / Q000601:surgery*; D013524:Surgical Flaps / Q000098:blood supply
D015921:Dental Implants