Intraoral reconstruction of mandibular defects after tumor resection.

The intraoral reconstruction of mandibular defects resulting from tumor resection with autogeneic iliac bone is described. Large pieces of pelvis can be harvested and split sagittally for lengthening or altering the direction and shape of the body or angle of the reconstructed mandible. A graft taken from the iliac tubercle region can be used for satisfactory reshaping of the chin area. Delays in reconstruction, if necessary, should be of short duration, and a fabricated Kirschner wire splint with fixation screws, or a Kirschner wire and acrylic condyle may serve to counteract scar retraction prior to grafting. Esthetic and functional results have been good, and postoperative complications have been minimal.