Osseointegration of Dental Implants Placed in Free Fibula Graft

Objective: The aim of this article is to review survival/success rate of dental implants inserted invascularized free fibula grafts.

Background: Placement of dental implants following mandibular reconstruction during ablative surgery using vascularized free fibula grafts has proved to be a successful technique to achieve good mastication and complete dental rehabilitation. Insertionof implantsinto the new mandible provides a better access to the bone, interdental relationships are easier to assess, and oral rehabilitation can be acquired in a short span of time.

Result: Study design, treatment methods, follow-ups, defect location, and morphology varied among studies. A definite conclusion could not be reached. Future studies with long-term follow-ups are required.

Conclusion: Osseointegration of dental implants is a relatively safe technique with minimal complications. Patient selection plays a vital role, dental implants may be placed primarily, thus reducing the time to oral rehabilitation. Vascularized fibula grafts are a suitable method of mandibular reconstruction and are amenable to be successful in both primary and secondary endosseous implantation.