Application of digital surgery in the reconstruction of mandibular composite defects with chimeric deep circumflex iliac artery perforator flap

The purpose of this study was to explore the application value of digital surgery in the reconstruction of mandibular composite defects with a chimeric deep circumflex iliac artery perforator flap (DCIAPF).

Six patients with complex defects within half of the mandible underwent reconstruction using DCIAPF from January 2019 to January 2020 in Shenzhen People's Hospital. Doppler was used to locate the deep iliac circumflex artery, the range of mandibular osteotomy was designed, and DCIAPF was used to repair the mandibular composite under the guidance of the guide plate during the operation. Twelve months postoperatively, the facial shape, jaw height, and occlusal relationship were evaluated.

DCIAPF was harvested successfully in 6 patients, and the heights of all alveolar ridges and occlusal function of patients were significantly restored, without pain or snapping in the temporomandibular joint area.

The blood supply of DCIAPF is rich, and soft-bone tissue is sufficient for the reconstruction of mandibular composite defects. Combined with digital surgery, the accuracy and safety are improved.