Secondary reconstruction, after maxillectomy, using an osteocutaneous flap from the fibula. Report of a case

Surgical functional reconstruction after partial maxillectomy with fibula free flap. A bilateral upper alveolar bone, gingival and palatal defect after tumor resection, has various problems originating from reconstruction with prosthesis or temporalis muscle flap. We report a secondary reconstructive procedure using the fibula osteocutaneous free flap. The combined bone segments created the upper alveolar arch, and the skin paddle closed the palatal defect. This procedure restored the patient to masticatory function of the upper jaw, intelligible speech and natural facial appearance. As a result quality of life of patient was extremely improved.