Japanese Journal of Clinical Oncology, Vol 29, Issue 3 119-126, Copyright © 1999 by Foundation for Promotion of Cancer Research
A Takushima, T Susami, T Nakatsuka, K Harii and T Takato
BACKGROUND: The most commonly used tool for maxillo-mandibular fixation to
the patient who underwent reconstruction using a vascularized bone graft
after mandibular resection is a dental arch-bar. However, the occlusal
relationship achieved by this method is not ideal. Different from the
dental arch-bar, the multi-bracket appliance which is frequently used in
orthodontic treatment can control the position of each individual tooth
three dimensionally. Thus, this appliance was applied for
maxillo-mandibular fixation to patients who underwent mandibular
reconstruction using a vascularized bone graft. METHODS: A multi-bracket
appliance was applied to three patients. Prior to the surgery, standard
edgewise brackets were bonded to the teeth in the maxilla and in the
remaining mandible. After mandibular resection, wires for
maxillo-mandibular fixation were applied. The harvested bone was then
carefully fixed with miniplates to maintain the occlusion. The
multi-bracket appliance was worn for 3 months when the wound contraction
became mild. RESULTS: All three cases demonstrated stable and good
occlusion. They also demonstrated satisfactory post-surgical facial
appearance. CONCLUSIONS: Compared to conventional dental arch-bars, a
multi-bracket appliance offers improved management of mandibular
reconstruction. Firstly, its properties are helpful in maintaining
occlusion of the remaining dentition accurately in bone grafting procedure
as well as protecting against postsurgical wound contraction. Secondly, the
multi-bracket appliance keeps the oral cavity clean without periodontal
injury. As a result, stable occlusion of the residual teeth and good facial
appearance were obtained.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE
Multi-bracket appliance in management of mandibular reconstruction with vascularized bone graft
Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Japan. takushima-pla@h.u-tokyo.ac.jp
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