Objective: To investigate the defect types and reconstruction methods of maxillary defects.
Methods: The database of 1,107 cases with maxillary defects in Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology from January 1985 to December 2010 was established. There construction methods were reviewed. The defect types were classified according to Brown classification system.
Results: In the 1,107 cases, 1,104 cases could be classified according to Brown classification system. The most common type was 2a with 559 cases (50.6%). Among all the 1,107 cases, 349 cases were reconstructed with autotransplantation, 443 cases with prosthesis, 107 cases untreated, and 208 patients lost to the follow-up. There was a significant growing trend over time for the application of free flaps and a downward trend of prosthesis. The most popular free flaps were fibular flap (88 cases) and radial forearm flap (75 cases). Rectus abdominis flap and anterolatreal thigh flap were fit for extensive maxillary defects.
Conclusion: The most common defect type is 2a. Free flap has become the dominant option for maxillary reconstruction. Free flaps could be selected according to the maxillary defect types.