Evaluation of Plate-Related Complications and Efficacy in Fibula Free Flap Mandibular Reconstruction

AIM: The objective of this study was to evaluate the incidence of plate-related complications after vascularized bony reconstruction of the mandible, comparing the plate type used. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Between 2004 and December 2012, a total of 41 free osteocutaneous fibula flaps have been used in an equal number of patients for reconstruction of the mandible, at the Division of Maxillofacial surgery, San Giovanni Battista Hospital, University of Turin. Malignant pathology was the most common indication for segmental mandibulectomy.Patient outcomes were retrospectively evaluated with special attention to plate complications such as plate fracture, exposure, infection, and bony nonunion.The types of reconstruction plates used were mandible plates 2.0, locking plates 2.0, miniplates (