Objective To investigate the application of rigid internal fixation in mandibular reconstruction with autogenous bone and to evaluate its efficacy. Methods From January 1994 to May 2004, 98 patients with mandibular defect received mandibular reconstruction with autogenous bone by using rigid internal fixation. Seventy-two cases of benign tumor and 26 cases of malignant tumor were included. Four hundred and ono rigid fixation plates were inserted.The clinical results and X-ray films were analyzed and the healing processes were evaluated. The functional and aesthetic results of the mandibular reconstruction were also evaluated according to Lopez assessment system. Results After a follow-up of 1 to 3 years, 95 patients（96.9%）achieved successful effect. The forms and function of the mandibleswere resumed. Eightyone （82.7%）patients were satisfied with the results ofoperations. Thirteen patients（13.3%） achieved acceptable results. Four patients (4.1%) were dissatisfied with the results of operations. Conclusion The rigid internal fixation is conductive to healing and remodeling ofthe transplant bone in mandibular reconstruction.
Simultaneous restoration of function and appearance should be performed in mandibular reconstruction. Option of reconstructive techniques is determined by cause, location, extent, and classification of the mandibular defects. Vascularize bone graft is one of the most popular technique in current clinical practice of mandibular reconstruction. Fibula is the most common donor site for mandibular reconstruction. The disadvantage of low height of neo-mandible reconstructed by single fibular segment can be solved by vascularized double barrel fibula graft. Using virtual surgical planning and intraoperative navigation for mandibular reconstruction leads to simplify surgical procedure, reduce operating time and injury, and decrease donor site morbidity so that accurate mandibular reconstruction could be completed. Direction of minimal invasive surgery for mandibular reconstruction will be developed by intraoral approach and intraoral anastomosis.