S. Siciliano et al., Distraction osteogenesis of a fibula free flap used for mandibular reconstruction: preliminary report, J CRAN MAX, 26(6), 1998, pp. 386-390
The authors report the first case of mandibular distraction osteogenesis ap
plied to a fibula microvascularized flap used to reconstruct an almost enti
re mandible, The technique and complications are described. The literature
is reviewed. The biological and physiological process of bone elongation by
Ilizarov's method is explained according new studies on chondroid tissue.
Preoperative planning of vectors of device placement and trajectory is esse
ntial for good results.