Abstract

NAVARRO CUELLAR, C. et al. Implant-supported rehabilitation using the fibula free flap. Rev Esp Cirug Oral y Maxilofac [online]. 2006, vol.28, n.5, pp.263-275. ISSN 2173-9161.

Free fibula flap has proved to be one of the most versatile for oromandibular reconstruction due to the available length of bone and the possibility of incorporating a long skin paddle to cover intraoral soft tissues. The use of osseointegrated dental implants is an important technique for the oral rehabilitation of these patients. Osseointegrated implants provide the most rigid prosthetic stabilization available to withstand masticatory forces.These implants can be placed immediately or in a second time procedure.In our case, implantation in the fibula free flap is done after 6-12 months because of the large amount of osteosynthesis material required forthe fixation of the flap. Four or six months later, when osseointegration has taken place, the implants are loaded with a dental rehabilitation. We analize 12 cases of mandibular reconstruction with fibula free flap and their aesthetic and functional rehabilitation with osseointegrated implants with a 2 year follow up Fifty-six dental implants were placed developing all of them but one a correct osseointegration. All these patients recovered masticatory function and underwent a considerable improvement in labial competence, salival continence, speech articulation and facial harmony.

Keywords : Mandibular reconstruction; Free fibula flap; Osseointegrated implants.

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