Frequency of post-radiation plate extrusion in mini plate versus reconstruction plate for mandibular reconstruction in oncologic surgeries of mandible.

Objective: To compare plate extrusion rates of mini-plates versus reconstruction plates in the fixation of vascularized fibula into segmental mandibular defects. Study Design: Retrospective Review. Setting: Department of Plastic and Reconstructive surgery, Liaquat National Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan. Period: January 2017 to December 2019. Material & Methods: In this retrospective review, 38 patients were included who underwent free fibular reconstruction of segmental mandibular defects after oncologic resection of bone and adjuvant radiotherapy. Patient data and post radiation plate extrusion rates were recorded; the results were compared between patients who had segmental fibular reconstruction of their mandibular defect with mini- plates (n = 18) with those who underwent repair using reconstruction plates (n = 20). Average follow up were 18 ± 3 week. Results: Statistically significant difference was identified in decrease number of extrusion of plate after post radiation in mini-plates group (5.5%) versus reconstruction plate (15%). Over all complication of both groups are same. Conclusion: After oncologic resection of mandible and reconstruction with free fibula flap patient underwent radiotherapy which result in scarring and shrinkage of facial skin that lead to wound dehiscence and exposure of underlying plate. By using mini plate this exposure of plate incidence is lower.