Treatment of Mandibular Ameloblastoma Involving the Mandibular Condyle: Resection and Concomitant Reconstruction With a Custom Hybrid Total Joint Prosthesis and Iliac Bone Graft

Surgical management of mandibular ameloblastoma and immediate reconstruction with iliac crest and costochondrial bone grafts: A case report

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE

Ameloblastoma is a benign but locally aggressive odontogenic tumor mostly occurring in the jaws. Ameloblastoma can be difficult to diagnose because it mimics other benign lesions. Its diagnosis requires a combination of imaging data, histopathological analysis, and molecular tests. Its treatment modality diverges from simple enucleation with bone curettage up to wide surgical resections.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 25-year-old female presented with a right-sided mandibular mass for five years. Histopathology and radiology tests confirmed it to be an ameloblastoma. A hemimandibulectomy was done, followed by immediate reconstruction using an autogenously inserted iliac crest bone and a costochondral graft as an interposition graft for the lost part. The patient had a satisfactory clinical outcome, and no sign of recurrence after a follow-up of six months.

CLINICAL DISCUSSION

The ideal management of ameloblastoma should minimize recurrence, restore function and appearance, and present minimal donor site morbidity. While the removal of a wide part of the bone and soft tissue leads to defects that may cause functional and aesthetic concerns, conservative management is associated with minimal downtime but high recurrence rates. Reconstructive surgery is of paramount importance for the recovery of the lost parts in these patients.

CONCLUSION

Radical surgery is the treatment of choice for large tumors to minimize recurrence, and immediate reconstruction utilizing grafting techniques is essential to restoring function and appearance. The autologous bone graft technique is satisfactory for immediate mandibular reconstruction as it represents a simple, easy, less costly, and reliable method for restoring mandibular continuity defects.

Assessing the Efficacy of Allogeneic Nerve Grafts in Trigeminal Nerve Repair: A Systematic Review

PURPOSE

Our primary objective was to assess the efficacy of allogeneic nerve grafts in inferior alveolar nerve or lingual nerve repair. We hypothesized that using allogeneic nerve grafts would be effective, as evidenced by achieving high rates of functional sensory recovery (FSR). Additionally, we looked if sex, time from injury to repair, etiology of nerve damage, and graft length affected outcomes.

METHODS

A systematic review following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines was conducted. PubMed and Scopus databases were searched using specific search strategies to generate eligible studies. Inclusion criteria encompassed studies reporting use of allogeneic grafts, assessing FSR using either Medical Research Council Scale or Neurosensory Testing, and published within the past 15 years.

RESULTS

Across 10 studies conducted between 2011 and 2023, analysis was performed on 149 patients and 151 reconstructed nerves. Allogeneic nerve grafts showed an average FSR rate of 88.0%. Kaplan-Meier analysis of time to FSR postoperatively revealed that of those achieving FSR, 80% achieved it within 6 months and 98% achieved it by 1 year. The mean graft length was 29.92 mm ± 17.94 mm. The most common etiology for nerve damage was third molar extractions (23.3%). Sex distribution among patients revealed that 85 were female (57.0%) and 64 were male (43.0%).

CONCLUSION

Our primary hypothesis was supported as nerve allografts achieved high rates of FSR. FSR was achieved in normative timeframes, which is 6 to 12 months postoperatively. Furthermore, allografts reduced the risk of posttraumatic trigeminal neuropathy. Time from injury to repair, graft length, etiology of nerve damage, and sex did not affect FSR. As the assessed variables in our study did not affect outcomes, there needs to be a more nuanced approach to understanding and addressing various factors influencing sensory recovery.

Extended total temporomandibular joint reconstruction prosthesis: A comprehensive analysis

Alloplastic total temporomandibular joint replacement (TMJR) is the treatment of choice for end-stage temporomandibular joint diseases. Extended TMJR (eTMJR) is a modification of the standard alloplastic fossa-condyle joint that includes components extending further to the skull base or the mandible. The aim of this study is to review the use of the eTMJR prosthesis for the treatment of large craniomaxillofacial defects. Data mining was performed according to the PRISMA statement using online search in databases such as PubMed (Medline), Google Scholar, Dimensions, Semantic Scholar and Web of Science. A total of 19 case reports, 08 case series and 03 retrospective studies were identified. A total of 49 patients were presented in the case reports and case series, who were implanted with 56 eTMJR prostheses (07 bilateral and 42 unilateral procedures). The mean age of the patients was 36.02±16.54 years, the male to female patient ratio was 1:1.72 and the mean follow-up time was 23.74 ± 19.83 months. The eTMJR prosthesis was most frequently used to treat ameloblastoma and hemifacial microsomia. Analysis of the retrospective studies was performed in three domains: the baseline characteristic of patients, treatment outcomes in terms of functional variables and complications after eTMJR prostheses implantation. This study concluded that the implantion of the eTMJR prosthesis was uncommon, that appropriate class of eTMJR prosthesis was not reported, and that the width of the mandibular component (like the length) of eTMJR prosthesis has substantial variations.

Mandibular Reconstruction after Resection of Ameloblastoma by Custom-Made CAD/CAM Mandibular Titanium Prosthesis: Two Case Reports, Finite Element Analysis and Discussion of the Technique

Virtual surgical planning for CAD/CAM mandibular reconstruction by titanium prosthesis was recently reported for resected cases. Even if some advantages are evident, difficulties that may arise for TMJ function after reconstruction originate from prosthesis contamination through oral mucosa dehiscence. In these two cases reported of mandibular reconstruction after resection of ameloblastoma by custom-made CAD/CAM titanium prosthesis, the procedures were aimed to preserve the TMJ glenoid cavity and articular disc avoiding functional problems for hemi-mandibular resections that included the condyle (as in case #1) or with condylar preservation (as in case #2) and avoiding intraoral incisions in both cases. The entire surgical planning and prosthetic fabrication were explained with specifications and the sequence of the surgical procedure. Finite elements analysis (FEA) was performed to check the force distribution and efficacy of the prosthetic device (case 1 with hemi-mandibular resection and rehabilitation). Although successful in these two cases, surgical reconstruction of the mandibular defect after resection by a CAD-CAM custom-made prosthesis still shows some drawbacks and failure risks. Several advantages of this technique and the surgical success in these two cases were presented, but limitations and side effects must be considered when cases are selected.

Concomitant Microvascular Aided Extended Temporo-Mandibular Joint Replacement (ME-TJR) and Stock Temporo-Mandibular Joint Replacement (MS-TJR) During Mandibular Reconstruction

Background

Disarticulation is indicated when pathologic process involves the condyle or when a body/ramus lesion extends into condylar process. The goal of reconstruction is to reinstate joint mechanism for function and also to restore facial symmetry.

Aim

Retrospective evaluation of functional and aesthetic outcomes in patients with disarticulation defects of mandible treated with concomitant alloplastic temporomandibular joint replacement and microvascular free flap reconstruction.

Materials and Methods

Nine patients (8 benign pathologies and 1 secondary reconstruction for malignant neoplasm), who underwent mandibular resection with condylar disarticulation and reconstruction with Free microvascular flap and Alloplastic total joint replacement between 2015 and 2022 were included in the study. A modified functional intra-oral Glasgow scale (FIGS)2 was used for quality of life (QOL) scoring. Speech, mastication, swallowing, VAS pain score, mouth-opening, occlusion, facial symmetry and overall patient satisfaction were assessed.

Results

8 patients with benign pathology reported excellent outcome with a QOL score of 13-15 in terms of speech, chewing and swallowing. Pre-operative occlusion of native mandible was maintained in all dentulous patients. VAS score of 0-1 was reported. Mouth opening was adequate in all patients. 2 patients reported mild ipsilateral deviation of mandible. Mild facial asymmetry was reported by 2 patients with an overall satisfaction of 8-9. There were no significant intra/post-operative complications in patients with benign pathology. Failure of stock joint was observed in secondary reconstruction for malignant neoplasm.

Conclusion

Microvascular free flap aided stock or custom alloplastic replacement of temporomandibular joint (MS-TJR, ME-TJR) restores function and aesthetics following mandibular resection with disarticulation of condyle.

Patient specific implant with high condylar neck osteotomy for temporomandibular joint preservation in segmental mandibulectomy

STUDY DESIGN

Letter to the Editor.

OBJECTIVE

Disarticulation may be considered during segmental mandibulectomy where margins necessitate high condylar neck osteotomy. Although a number of techniques have been reported for reconstruction of the condyle, successful preservation of normal joint anatomy, where possible, should be considered as a superior alternative. This report demonstrates a safe and predictable approach to condylar head preservation with high condylar neck osteotomy.

METHODS

We present two cases of native TMJ preservation with a very short salvageable condylar component utilising 3D-printed patient specific cutting guides and implants.

RESULTS

The condyle preserving reconstructive technique described successfully preserves the capsule of the TMJ, and with careful execution can preserve the intra-articular components of the joint and their relationships to each other. Both patients have experienced excellent outcomes to date.

CONCLUSIONS

As opposed to disarticulation reconstructions, this technique is more likely to achieve long-term normal occlusion, maintain normal alignment of reconstructed segments, and preserve condylar translation as opposed to simple hinging, in addition to avoiding the potential pitfalls of alternative techniques.

Histopathologic Feature of Hyalinization Predicts Recurrence of Conventional/Solid Multicystic Ameloblastomas

The histologic properties of tumors seem to affect their biological behavior, and the same holds good for solid multicystic ameloblastoma (SMA), a benign, locally destructive lesion. Hyalinization is one such histological factor that has been demonstrated to correlate with the biological behavior of neoplasms. The present study aimed to analyze the correlation between the severity of hyalinization (SOH) and the recurrence potential of SMAs. The study was performed on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) diagnosed archival cases of SMA, follicular SMA (n = 35) and plexiform SMA (n = 25). The cases were evaluated for SOH and scored from 0–3, and the correlation between SOH and recurrence was analyzed for statistical significance. The clinical parameters of the lesion were analyzed for statistical correlation with recurrence. The SOH significantly correlated with the recurrence of SMA (p = 0.001). The histologic type did not influence the biological behavior of SMA. The location of SMA in the body of the mandible (p = 0.036), multilocular radiolucency (p = 0.001) and root resorption (p = 0.002) also showed strong statistical correlation with recurrence. It is evident from the present study that hyalinization strongly correlates with the biological behavior of SMA. Future studies with advanced investigations could validate the presence of hyalinization and identify the origin of the hyalinized product in SMAs.

A case of giant ameloblastoma: destructive effect on the facial skeleton and soft tissues of the head and neck

Ameloblastoma is a benign odontogenic tumor characterized by slow growth causing painless facial swelling. The tumor can behave locally aggressively, and may have direct destructive effects on the surrounding soft and hard tissues. This paper reports the unique case of a female patient with giant ameloblastoma of the mandible. Computed tomography (CT) revealed an enormous swelling of the left side of the face, resorption of the affected hemi-mandible, left maxilla, and tissues of the temporal, infratemporal, and pterygopalatine fossae. Pressure from the tumor resulted in displacement and destruction of the facial skeleton, upper aero-digestive tract structures, and some structures of the neck. The patient was treated by radical hemimandibulectomy with removal of the tumorous mass. Precise knowledge of the anatomical structures, and their locations and topographical relationships is required in the diagnosis and treatment plan for each surgical procedure in cases of giant ameloblastoma. CT imaging can be used to determine the extent and exact location of the lesion, revealing other important details that may help in selecting appropriate treatment.

Alloplastic Temporomandibular Joint Reconstruction Following Recurrent Ameloblastoma Resection

ABSTRACT

Ameloblastomas are benign tumors that most commonly affecting the mandible. The current standard of treatment for ameloblastomas is resection followed by reconstruction that has historically been accomplished through the use of a microsurgical vascularized flaps taken from the iliac crest or fibula. Alloplastic reconstruction methods have gained popularity over recent years with success reported in the reconstruction of many pathologies, including ankylosis, condylar fracture, neoplasia involving extensive resection, severe inflammatory/degenerative temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disease, and congenital TMJ abnormalities. The authors present a patient who successfully underwent ameloblastoma resection and TMJ reconstruction with a custom TMJ Concepts alloplastic implant. The authors also present a review of the literature on alloplastic TMJ reconstruction following ameloblastoma resection. To our knowledge, this is the second report in the literature on the use of a TMJ Concepts implant after ameloblastoma resection.

Inferior alveolar nerve allogenic repair following mandibulectomy: A systematic review

PURPOSE

Processed nerve allografts (PNA) are an alternative to nerve autografts to reconstruct the inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) when it is damaged. The purpose of this study was to report the results of IAN reconstruction using PNA in the context of aggressive benign mandibular pathology.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

A systematic literature review was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) statement through the MEDLINE (Pubmed) and SCOPUS (Elsevier) databases. Studies concerning reconstructive surgeries of IAN by PNA, performed at the same time as the surgical resection of the benign pathologies of the mandible were included. The following data were analyzed: gender and patient age, cause of mandibular resection, graft dimensions, sensory recovery at least 6 months after surgery according to the MRC scale, and adverse events related to the intervention.

RESULTS

The initial search yielded 290 studies and 5 were included in the final review. A total of 33 patients underwent 36 IAN reconstructions; 14 patients were female (42.4%) and mean age was 30 years old. The mean length of graft used was 64.0 ± 9.1 mm. The most common pathology that led to nerve resection was ameloblastoma (52%). Among the reconstructions for which follow-up data were available, functional sensory recovery occurred in 92.9% of cases.

CONCLUSION

PNA are a reliable, safe, and effective alternative to nerve autografts for the rehabilitation of the IAN with 92.9% of functional recovery according to the reported literature, avoiding any comorbidity associated with the use of a donor site.

Patient specific total temporomandibular joint reconstruction: A review of biomaterial, designs, fabrication and outcomes

Purpose

The aim of this article was to systematically review the available literature on patient specific total temporomandibular joint total joint replacement (PS-TMJR) implants for their biomaterial, designs, fabrication techniques and their outcomes.

Methods

A literature review was conducted using PubMed, and science direct databases using the key words three-dimensional printing, 3D printing, CAD CAM, computer aided designing, computer aided manufacturing, additive technology, custom made implants, patient specific implants in combination with Temporomandibular joint, TMJ surgery.

Results

The search revealed 2760 articles, of which 374 were in English and discussed TMJ reconstruction. Further filtering shortlisted 74 articles that discussed PS-TMJR. Duplicates were removed and additional added from article references. 39 articles describing biomaterial, designing and fabrication of PS-TMJR implants and their outcomes were selected for analysis.

Conclusions

Although PS-TMJR implants allow a better anatomical fit, improved fixation, and safeguard various structures such as the inferior alveolar nerve, they vary in designs, material and fabrication techniques. However, PS-TMJR printed with SLM and EBM technologies have yet to be compared with the conventional ones in terms of mechanical strength, and clinical outcome. With emerging bioprinting technologies, even newer biomaterials should be considered for 3D printing of PS-TMJR devices designed to achieve harmony in function between the joint device, bone and masticatory muscles.

TMJ pain as a presentation of metastatic breast cancer to the right mandibular condyle

Cancer metastasis to the oral and maxillofacial region is uncommon, and metastasis to the mandibular condyle is considered rare. We present a case of a 56-year-old woman with a history of invasive ductal cell carcinoma of the right breast, 10 years in remission, presenting with a 6-month history of symptoms typical of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction. Imaging revealed an osteolytic lesion of her right TMJ and subsequent open biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of metastatic breast cancer. Despite the rarity of metastatic cancer to the head and neck region, it is still important for clinicians from both medical and dental backgrounds to consider this differential diagnosis, particularly in patients with a history of hormonal positive subtype of breast cancer. Given that bony metastasis can manifest even 10 years after initial diagnosis, surveillance which includes examination of the head and neck region is important, and may include routine plain-film imaging surveillance with an orthopantomogram (OPG).

Custom Alloplastic Temporomandibular Joint Reconstruction: Expanding Reconstructive Horizons

Custom alloplastic temporomandibular joint (TMJ) reconstruction has been well established for the management of end-stage TMJ disease. However, its use in congenital TMJ deformities is limited. Here, the authors present initial outcomes of skeletally mature patients who underwent custom alloplastic TMJ reconstruction and simultaneous orthognathic surgery.A retrospective case series of patients who underwent custom alloplastic TMJ reconstruction concurrent with orthognathic surgery between 2014 and 2019 was completed. Functional, aesthetic and orthodontic outcomes as well as complications were recorded.Seven TMJs in 5 skeletally mature patients (4 female, 1 male, ages 16-30) (2 bilateral, 3 unilateral) were replaced. All but 1 patient had previous attempts at reconstructive surgery with poor results. All cases were prepared using virtual surgical planning and underwent concomitant maxillomandibular orthognathic surgery. All patients demonstrated improved post-operative occlusions. Four of 5 patients achieved >30 millimeters of post-operative MIO. Complications included ear canal perforation and facial nerve dysfunction.There were no infections or other implant-related complications. Mean follow up was 2 years and 15 days. Alloplastic TMJ reconstruction at the time of skeletal maturity for patients with congenital mandibular TMJ defects is an alternative to existing management options. Further long-term prospective outcomes studies are ongoing.

One stage microvascular mandible reconstruction by using scapula chimeric flap combined with computer-aided-design and computer-aided-manufacturing plate including bilateral alloplastic TMJ prosthesis: A case report

This report focuses a defect comprising the complete mandible due to osteonecrosis, including both condyles, that required bilateral temporomandibular joint (TMJ) reconstruction with complete mandibular corpus using a computer-aided-design and computer-aided-manufacturing(CAD-CAM) planning to harvest a scapula chimeric free flap combined with plate including bilateral alloplastic TMJ prosthesis. This procedure was realized in one and the same surgery. A 73 year-old-man developed an osteoradionecrosis of the total mandible including both condyles after radiation therapy for a squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue base(cT4aN2bM0G3). A CAD-CAM reconstruction was planned with a plate extended by bilateral individual TMJ prosthesis, individual fossa components and combined with a composite free flap originating from the subscapular vessel system including scapula(circumflex subscapular artery) for reconstruction of the mandibular corpus which was osteotomized in three segments with a resection guide, the parascapular skin paddle (descending branch of circumflex subscapular artery) for compensation of the soft tissue deficiency of the cervical skin and latissimus dorsi muscle(thoracodorsal artery) for the inner mucosal lining and intraoral reconstruction. The subscapular artery was anastomosed to the external carotid artery and two concomitant veins were sutured end-to-side to the internal jugular vein. The patient was discharged without feeding tube and tracheostomy. No complications have been observed after 6 months follow-up. The patient was able to tolerate soft diet and had comprehensible speech. Thus, a total mandibular reconstruction including both condyles using alloplastic and autoplastic reconstruction in one and the same stage is a valid option and may be considered in comparably severe cases.