Only a Plate? Nine-Year Follow-Up After Partial Mandibulectomy and Reconstruction With Titanium Plate

Abstract

Background: Oral squamous cell carcinoma is the main malignancy of the oral cavity; floor of the mouth and the lateral border of the tongue being the most affected sites. This kind of oral neoplasms may require mandibular resection and reconstruction. Treatment options for such mandibular defects include bone grafts, free flaps, and reconstruction plates. Today, the commonly used treatment method is vascularized fibula flaps due to its many advantages when compared to other methods. However, it is a complex procedure and demands much of both practitioners and the patient. Case Presentation: In this report, we present a case of oral squamous cell carcinoma of the gingiva of the mandible which was treated with a partial mandibulectomy and resection. Because of the patients age and fragility an immediate mandibular reconstruction with a pre-shaped reconstruction plate, without hard or soft tissue transfer, was performed. Yearly controls showed pleasing results both aesthetically and functionally and the patient showed no plate-related complications up until the patient’s death, 9 years later. Conclusion: With this case, we would like to illustrate that using reconstruction plates only may be a viable option in selected cases for continuity defects of the mandible, specifically in fragile patients less suitable for more demanding surgical interventions.