Microvascular Reconstruction of Mandible using Free Fibula Flaps: A Review

Segmental abnormalities of the mandible can be caused by infectious illnesses, trauma, malignant and benign tumors, and malignancies of all types. Problems with functionality and expression can result from the interruption of the mandible's continuity, disruption of muscle attachments, and loss of sensory and motor nerve innervations. Without a mandible reconstruction, significant functional, cosmetic, and social issues might develop, leading to a lower quality of life in terms of health and psychology of the patient. The best course of action is immediate reconstruction, to improve the quality of life after a ablative surgery both functionally and aesthetically.

Study Scope: This systematic review was planned, aimed to predict the outcomes, assess risk factors and evaluate the immediate and late postoperative complications, involving mandibular reconstruction using microvascular free fibula grafts. Comparing it with other osseo-myo-cutaneous reconstructive options for mandibular defects.

Objective: This systematic review gives the scientific community and reconstructive surgeons vitals inputs from the literature in studying the success rates of Free Fibula Flaps for choosing it as the gold standard for mandibular reconstructions.