Lateral oromandibular defect: When is it appropriate to use a bridging reconstruction plate combined with a soft tissue revascularized flap?

Background A quasi-experimental retrospective study was undertaken to evaluate a new concept of free tissue volume restoration combined with bridging reconstruction plate (compartment approach) to reduce plate-related complication rates. Methods We evaluated 40 patients with large lateral mandible defects and associated complex soft tissue defects reconstructed with a revascularized soft tissue flap and titanium hollow screw reconstruction plates. A case-control comparison was performed based on reconstruction type: restoration of soft tissue defect (conventional approach—group 1) versus over-reconstruction of soft tissue defect (compartment approach—group 2). Results Plate exposure rate was 6 of 16 (38%) in group 1 versus 2 of 24 (8%) in group 2, and the difference was statistically significant ( p = .04). The mean time to exposure was 10 months. Plate fracture rate was 6 of 23 (26.1%) in dentulous patients versus 1 of 17 (5.9%) in edentulous patients. Gastrostomy tube dependence was 6 of 16 (38%) in group 1 versus 6 of 24 (25%) in group 2. Conclusion The “compartment approach” reduces plate exposure rate and gastrostomy tube dependence. Revascularized osseocutaneous reconstruction is still required in dentulous patients. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2008