Disarticulation resections of the mandible: a prospective review of 16 cases

Abstract

Purpose: This article provides a review of the disarticulation resection of the mandible for various benign and malignant tumors and non-neoplastic processes. In so doing, the author proposes a classification to describe extension of pathology into the condylar region, thereby requiring its sacrifice. Recommendations are also proposed for preservation versus sacrifice of the meniscus when performing a disarticulation resection of the mandible. Finally, complications are evaluated in this type of mandibular resection.

Patients and methods: This review is based on the author's accumulated clinical data obtained from performing disarticulation resections on 16 patients who presented with 10 different pathologic diagnoses. Disarticulation resections are performed for 3 different patterns of extension of pathologic processes into the condylar region, designated as type I, type II, and type III by the author. These designations reflect the radiographic involvement of the condyle or subcondylar region of the mandible by the pathologic entity. The designations of type II and type III extensions are diagnosis dependent, whereas type I extension is independent of diagnosis.

Results: Five patients in this series presented with type I condylar extension, 2 patients presented with type II condylar extension, and 9 patients presented with type III condylar extension. The meniscus required sacrifice in 3 of the 16 patients. Complications occurred in 3 of 16 patients and included 1 dislocation of the plate into the middle cranial fossa, 1 dislocation of the plate inferiorly and posteriorly to the mastoid process, and 1 cutaneous exposure of the plate.

Conclusions: Disarticulation resections are rarely required variants of segmental resection of the mandible, and they are required by a variety of pathologic processes of the jaws and contiguous structures. The placement of a reconstruction bone plate with an affixed condylar prosthesis is well tolerated by patients and is associated with few complications. These reconstruction bone plates favorably support facial form, symmetry, and occlusion such that many patients delay their definitive bony reconstruction. Because these condyles are temporary prostheses, the surgeon should consider their removal with bony reconstruction of the disarticulation defect as soon as possible after the ablative surgery.