A tip for the reconstruction of larger maxillary defects in complicated cleft patients

Abstract

Residual alveolar cleft deficits can be difficult to treat. This is particularly the case in older and multiply operated patients as well as those with large oronasal defects and extensive scar tissue. In large and recalcitrant defects vascularized free tissue transfer should be considered as a definitive procedure. Vascularized free tissue transfer provides a 95% success rate and provides excellent bone for placement of osseointegrated implants for dental rehabilitation (Schwabegger et al., 2004). We feel that the scapula tip has a number of important advantages. These include reduced morbidity from the donor site, good bone quality and contour for implant placement, and a longer pedicle length.