Scapular Bone Grafts: Good Options for Craniofacial Defects?

INTRODUCTION

There is still no consensus on the ideal material to be used in craniofacial defects. Autogenous bone grafts are mostly preferred owing to their use with fewer complications. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the scapular bone graft can be used with equal or more advantages to other bone graft resources in orbital, maxillary sinus front wall, and frontal bone defects.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Twenty-four orbital, maxillary sinus front wall, and frontal bone defects were reconstructed with scapular bone grafts. Sixteen patients presented with complicated orbital fractures, 5 patients presented with isolated orbital floor fractures, and 3 patients presented with frontal bone fractures. The grafts were radiologically evaluated 1 day, 6 months, and 12 months postoperatively by 3-dimensional computed tomography scan.

RESULTS

All orbital, maxillary sinus front wall, and frontal bone defects were reconstructed successfully with scapular bone grafts. Clinical evaluation of the patients at 6 to 24 months of follow-up was considered satisfactory. Minimal donor site morbidity was observed. Scapular bone grafts adapted nicely to the recipient area, and bony union was complete as demonstrated by 3-dimensional computed tomography scans.

CONCLUSIONS

Reconstruction of orbital, maxillary sinus front wall, and frontal bone defects with scapular bone grafts is an easy and safe procedure with minimal donor site morbidity. Scapular bone graft is a good reconstructive option for orbital, maxillary sinus front wall, and frontal bone defects.