Assessing Long-Term Postoperative Resorption in Mandibular Block Cortical Grafts for Facial Asymmetry Correction: A Retrospective Investigation.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the long-term postoperative resorption of the graft mandibular block cortical graft and identify the resorption site following free transplantation into the contralateral mandible.

METHODS

In this study, individuals aged 18 years or older with facial asymmetry deformity who underwent free grafting of the mandibular block cortical graft were included. Postoperative computed tomography (CT) data were collected at predetermined intervals. The degree of graft bone absorption postoperatively was quantitatively evaluated using the equation Absorptivity=(V Tn -V T0 )/V T0 ×100%. The resorption site was qualitatively assessed through a color-coded distance map.

RESULTS

Postoperative analysis revealed partial absorption of the transplanted mandibular block cortical graft in the contralateral mandible, predominantly at the lower and posterior mandibular margins. The average decrease of 29.9±6.37% (paired t test, P <0.01).

CONCLUSION

The utilization of mandibular block cortical grafts in correcting facial asymmetry results in a low absorption rate and a stable absorption situation, rendering it a safe and effective technique.