Question:

I had most of my right lower jaw removed and replaced with my fibula. Along with numerous ‘problems’ I am having, one is that the fibula is too thin. Thus fracture is a likely possibility. I know of the bone grafting and other procedures, but I was curious of ‘plastic’. We hear of plastic knees, etc… Is there something similar for the jaw? Warm Regards.

Answer:

The fibula graft is the best of all of the options at the present time. The jaw is also replaced with metallic (titanium) bars but the outcomes aren’t as good as with the fibula. Plastic jaws aren’t being done primarily due to biocompatibility and connectivity issues. The fibula, being self and bone, integrates well with the site bone.

Take care.

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Go to the Oral Cancer health topic.