Vertical distraction of a free vascularized osteocutaneous scapular flap in the reconstructed mandible for implant therapy

Int J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2008 May;37(5):481-3. doi: 10.1016/j.ijom.2008.01.002. Epub 2008 Mar 25.

Abstract

This paper describes a case of vertical distraction osteogenesis of a free vascularized osteocutaneous scapular flap in the reconstructed mandible before implant therapy. The patient was a 67-year-old woman with squamous cell carcinoma of the right lower gingiva. She underwent segmental mandibulectomy for tumor ablation and reconstruction with an osteocutaneous scapular flap. The distraction protocol, clinical course and implant therapy are presented. Through this procedure, the bone height of the scapular graft increased by 10mm. Implants with adequate length could be placed in the distracted area. Two years after masticatory loading, the condition of these implants was stable. Vertical distraction osteogenesis of the scapular flap was considered effective when performed before implant therapy, to facilitate postoperative functional and esthetic restoration after tumor resection.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Alveolar Ridge Augmentation / methods*
  • Bone Transplantation
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / surgery
  • Dental Implantation, Endosseous
  • Female
  • Gingival Neoplasms / surgery
  • Humans
  • Mandible / surgery*
  • Osteogenesis, Distraction*
  • Plastic Surgery Procedures
  • Scapula / transplantation
  • Skin Transplantation
  • Surgical Flaps* / blood supply
  • Vertical Dimension