Mandible Reconstruction

C. Rendenbach, L. Gerbig, M. Boehme, K. Sellenschloh, M.M. Morlock, G. Huber

Free osseus flaps are the gold standard for the reconstruction of combined bone and soft tissue defects following a continuity interrupting resection of the mandible. Depending on the type and size of a defect, the corresponding autologous graft is segmented and subsequently fixed using either segment-crossing titanium reconstruction or miniplates. 

Problems with current fixation systems are material failure with either screw loosening or screw/plate breaks due to masticatory forces up to 1000 Newton, non-consolidated osseous gaps after fixation and substantial metal artifacts with an impact on tumor after care by computed tomography or MRI. 

With this project, a cooperation of the TUHH and the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf, the mechanical strength, biomechanical behaviour and characteristics of material failure of different titanium systems has been exhibited. Further, alternative materials (fiber-reinforced glass, polylactide and magnesium) are under consideration for use in patients.