Titanium reconstruction plate exposure following mandibular reconstruction in malignancy

A case report and review of literature

Abstract

Mandibular reconstruction with titanium reconstuction plate is modality whose main advantage lies in its cost effectiveness and lack of secondary morbidity. It is thus still in widespread use, inspite of the availability of large number of other more sucessful reconstructive options. However it is also associated with large number of complication. Plate exposure is not an uncommon complication necessitating plate removal.

A case of carcinoma of the anterior alveolus of the mandible treated with supra omohyoid neck dissection and segmental resection of mandible on left side followed by reconstruction of the mandible with titanium reconstruction plate and nasolabial flap. Patient developed infection in surgical site and exposure of titanium reconstruction plate on 20^th post-operative day. Subsequently reconstruction plate removed under GA and infection treated with antibiotics based on culture and sensitivity. Post-operative recovery following plate removal is uneventful.

This case report discusses the complication of an infected plate following a major head and neck surgery and a review of literature of titanium plate reconstruction.