Reconstruction of a pathologic fracture following osteomyelitis of the mandible using a fibula osteocutaneous flap

Abstract

The use of a fibula osteocutaneous flap is currently the mainstay of segmental mandibular reconstruction. This type of flap is used to treat tumors, trauma, or osteoradionecrosis of the mandible. However, a fibula osteocutaneous flap may also be a good option for reconstructing the mandible to preserve oropharyngeal function and facial appearance in cases of pathological fracture requiring extensive segmental bone resection. Chronic osteomyelitis is one of the various causes of subsequent pathologic mandibular fractures; however, it is rare, and there have been few reports using free flaps in osteomyelitis of the mandible. We share our experience with a 76-year-old patient who presented with a pathologic fracture following osteomyelitis of the mandible that was reconstructed using a fibula osteocutaneous flap after wide segmental resection.