Long-term radiological findings following reconstruction of the condyle with fibular free flaps

Aim: Fibular bone grafts are considered as one of the best choices for reconstruction of the condyle. However, little data are available on bone remodelling after such reconstruction. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the long-term radiological outcome. Patients and Methods: Eleven patients underwent condylar reconstruction with a free fibular transplant. In all cases the end of the fibular graft was placed into the glenoid fossa under the intact temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disc. Evaluation consisted of digital width and length measurement of the end of the fibula on panorex studies. Results: Remodelling of the end of the neocondyle was found and consisted of rounding off and narrowing of the end of the transplant. Conclusion: The most likely explanation for these changes is the fact that, the TMJ disc was preserved. (C) 2004 European Association for Cranio-Maxillofacial Surgery.