Dental implant placement after mandibular reconstruction by microvascular free fibula flap: current knowledge and remaining questions

Abstract

Mandibular reconstruction by microvascular free fibula flap has dramatically improved the quality of life of patients treated by interruptive surgery. A simple prosthesis can be used for dental rehabilitation but in many cases, these prostheses remain nonfunctional. The use of osseointegrated implants restores both function and aesthetics. The technique for implantation in fibula flap is very similar to the technique in native mandible but access to the bone is the most difficult step of the surgery. The success rate for osteointegration ranges from 86% to 99% but the success rate of the prosthesis is much lower. This difference could be explained by the vertical discrepancy between the graft and the remaining mandible, which leads to an unfavourable implant-crown ratio. The quality of soft tissues is also a limiting factor for the prosthesis, and hypertrophy often appears after the placement of the abutments. The type of the prosthesis (fixed or removable) should also be discussed. Occlusal considerations should be highlighted as occlusion remains abnormal in many cases. Three-dimensional imaging might help in the planning of these complex reconstructions. A close collaboration between the maxillo-facial surgeon, the oral surgeon and the prosthodontist is necessary to obtain good results.