Comparison of the late results of mandibular reconstruction using nonvascularized or vascularized. grafts and dental implants

Purpose: This study evaluates contour restoration in segmental defects of t he mandible and the survival rate of endosseous implants placed into these reconstructions. Patients and Methods: Forty-four patients with 23 nonvascularized grafts an d 21 patients with vascularized bone flaps were included in the study. The lateral and the sagittal extension of the contour of both the mandibular bo ne and the overlying soft tissues was determined from serial computed tomog raphy (CT) scans in defined planes through the reconstructed mandible. The success rate of dental implants was determined by a life-table analysis. Results: Average lateral deviation of the reconstructed side from the nonre constricted side was 4.3 mm (nonvascularized grafts) and 5.6 mm (vasculariz ed grafts). The soft tissue contour followed the skeletal contour quite clo sely, with slightly smaller degrees of deviation. Asymmetry was greatest in the area of the horizontal ramus. In some cases, skeletal deviation was in tentionally produced to compensate for a soft tissue deficit on the reconst ructed side. However, in some cases, a major deviation of bone contour was associated with considerable deviation of the soft tissue contour (maximum, 10.5 mm). The cumulative implant success rate was 100% after 5 years and 6 0.3% after 10 years. None of the seven implant failures accounted for prost hetic failure. Conclusions: Although there are minor differences, both nonvascularized and revascularized grafts allow for satisfactory contour restoration in segmen tal reconstructions of the mandible. Implants placed into these grafts prov ide a reliable basis for dental rehabilitation.