Osteoradionecrosis - free flap jaw and maxilla reconstruction
Hi all,
I diagnosed with Rigth tonsils SCC in 2016 and now experiencing severe osteoradionecrosis and offered a free flap lower and upper jaw reconstructive surgery. They will take bone from my leg and construct a new jaw bone. Does anyone had this surgery or now someone who had.? I am looking to understand patient experiences.
Thanks in advance.
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Hello @mavish. Welcome to our head and neck cancer gang. To your question, I have had mandible section replacement due to osteoradionecrosis. This was five years ago. They took a section from my fibula, which horrified me initially yet I had minimal problems with leg recovery. Jaw doing well or as well as can be expected.
There are a few discussions in this group concerning this surgery. Search above for either fibula free flap, osteoradionecrosis, Ameloblastoma, or anything related to this surgery. We are a small group. It is not a particularly common surgery. It is however a very specific surgery and should be performed only where there is considerable experience with it. You must ask your surgeons what their experience and training in this specific surgery is. Otherwise failure becomes a life sentence.
As for my experience, it was a difficult day long surgery. Lots of pre-op measurements and assessments. Total of seven days in hospital prior to home care release. Three additional weeks on nasal feeding tube. Several return follow ups. Trach did not close on its own so that had to be sewn four months later when I had my prosthetic pegs uncovered, for teeth. Although there were obstacles and recovery issues, I enjoy no major dental issues and corn on the cob once again.
Can I ask where you plan to have this done? Do you need recommendations for this procedure?
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