[Mandibular reconstruction using an iliac crest free flap vascularized by the deep circumflex iliac vessels. A clinical study apropos of 30 cases].

Thirty cases of mandibular defects were reconstructed with a free iliac flap vascularised by the deep circumflex iliac vessels. Twenty five of these cases involved soft tissue damage with a defect of the mandible. The surgical procedure described by I. Taylor was used. Three anatomical variations of the pedicle were found. The features of the iliac bone are particularly suitable for mandibular reconstruction. The natural shape of the iliac bone does not require complex osteotomies and its healing capacity allows simple osteosynthesis. The thickness of the muscular pedicle, and thus the flap, is determined by the position of the lower edge of the skin components with respect to the iliac crest. This type of flap currently remains very useful in reconstruction of major mandibular and adjacent soft tissue destruction because of the very low incidence of failure (2 cases) and complications.