MRONJ of the Mandible-From Decortication to a Complex Jaw Reconstruction Using a CAD/CAM-Guided Bilateral Scapula Flap

Medicina (Kaunas). 2023 Mar 9;59(3):535. doi: 10.3390/medicina59030535.

Abstract

Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) has been an integral part of the maxillofacial patient population for some time. The therapeutic concept ranges from conservative approaches over less extended decortications to major jaw resections, which can result in a considerable loss of quality of life. Based on three case reports, this paper presents the long-term history of patients with MRONJ of the mandible, whose disease ultimately resulted in partial or total mandibular resection and subsequent multisegmental reconstruction using a microvascular anastomosed bone flap. Furthermore, a suitable alternative for complex mandibular reconstruction is demonstrated when using a free fibula flap is not possible. The options are limited, particularly when multisegmental restoration of mandibular continuity is required. One case presents a mandible reconstruction using a CAD/CAM-guided bilateral scapular free flap (CAD/CAM = Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing), which has not been described for this purpose before. Due to the complexity, computer-assisted surgery and patient-specific implants seem reasonable, which is why a special focus was applied to this topic.

Keywords: CAD/CAM; MRONJ; PSI; free flap; mandibular reconstruction.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Computer-Aided Design
  • Fibula
  • Free Tissue Flaps* / surgery
  • Humans
  • Mandible / surgery
  • Quality of Life*
  • Scapula / surgery

Grants and funding

This research received no external funding.