Bone height of non-vascularized iliac bone grafts in mandibular reconstruction

Objective:To examine the height of non-vascularized iliac bonegrafts in mandibular reconstruction and identify the optimal time and place for implant placement. Methods:Non-vascularized iliac bonegrafts in 35 patients were observed longitudinally by panoramics. Photoshop was used to measure the bone height. All patients were divided into four types. Results:In the mandibles with type I and II bone-defect, the height of bonegrafts decreased firstly, then reached stable stage after 2 years postoperatively. The decrease progressed more rapidly with an increasing distance away from the residual mandibular bone ends. In the mandibles with type III bone-defect, the height of bonegrafts decreased at first and increased after one year. There was no statistical difference between sites. In the mandibles with type IV bone-defect, the height of bonegrafts had no difference among periods and sites. Conclusions:For type I and II defects, the bone near the residual mandible is more suitable for implant insertion 2 years after operation. For type III defects, 1 year postoperatively is optimal for implant insertion at all sites. For type IV defects, all sites were indicated even for immediate implant insertion.