Objective:

To describe the advantages and disadvantages of segmental mandibular bone reconstruction with the bicortical parietal osteofascial pedicled flap, showing our experience in 9 cases.

Material and methods:

Retrospective study of 9 consecutive patients undergoing segmental mandibular bone reconstruction with a bicortical parietal osteofascial pedicled flap. Indications, technique, results and complications as well as the most relevant clinical data of patients are described.

Results:

The size of the reconstructed bone defect was from 3.5 to 11 cm of long (average 7 cm), and from 2 to 4 cm of high (average 3 cm). The size of the bone flap component corresponded approximately to the dimensions of the mandibular bone defect. In all cases the flap was viable. The incidence of complications was high, showing dehiscence at the donor site in two thirds of patients, requiring reconstruction of the defect in 4 patients (44%). The receiving area presented various complications, requiring reconstruction with local flaps in 2 cases (22%).

Conclusion:

The bicortical parietal osteofascial pedicled flap gives to the mandibular reconstruction a vascularized membranous bicortical bone. It also presents the advantages associated with being a close flap. This flap can be an alternative to microsurgical techniques when these are not available or they are not applicable and to the mandibular distraction osteogenesis by bone transport. Complications in the donor area of this flap, although not serious, may require revision surgery.

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