Biomechanical Analysis of Various Reconstructive Methods for the Mandibular Body and Ramus Defect Using a Free Vascularized Fibula Flap.

Biomechanical Analysis of Various Reconstructive Methods for the Mandibular Body and Ramus Defect Using a Free Vascularized Fibula Flap.
Biomed Res Int. 2020;2020:8797493
Authors: Li X, Jiang C, Gao H, Wang C, Wang C, Ji P
Abstract
Several different methods exist for reconstructing the mandibular body and ramus defect with the use of a free vascularized fibula flap, but none have adequately addressed the long-term mechanical stability and osseointegration. The aim of this study is to compare the biomechanics of different surgical methods and to investigate the best approach for reconstructing the mandibular body and ramus defect. Five finite element models based on different reconstructive methods were simulated. Stress, strain, and displacement of connective bone sections were calculated for five models and compared. The models were printed using a 3D printer, and stiffness was measured using an electromechanical universal testing machine. The postoperative follow-up cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) was taken at different time points to analyze bone mineral density of connective bone sections. The results showed that the "double up" (DU) model was the most efficient for reconstructing a mandibular body and ramus defect by comparing the mechanical distribution of three sections under vertical and inclined loading conditions of 100 N. The stiffness detection showed that stiffness in the DU and "double down" (DD) models was highe...

Source: Biomed Res - April 9, 2020 Category: Research Authors: Li X, Jiang C, Gao H, Wang C, Wang C, Ji P Tags: Biomed Res Int Source Type: research