Irradiated Mandibular Autografts Update

Abstract
• Nineteen patients underwent primary mandibular reconstruction with irradiated mandibular autografts. Ten were successful, with the longest follow-up being 7½ years; nine failed within six months. Although an excellent graft for size and contour, a 53% success rate is no better than any other primary grafting technique. We have abandoned this technique in most situations and presently are evaluating split-rib grafts and intraoperative radiation to in situ mandibles. (Arch Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 1986;112:277-279)