[Long-term complications associated with immediate plate reconstruction for mandibular defect following tumor-surgery].

[OBJECTIVE] To assess the long-term complications associated with the application of reconstruction plate.

[METHODS] Ninety-seven patients underwent immediate repair by using bendable reconstruction plate for maintainance of space and contour following mandibular segmental resection. Of them, 68 cases were followed up for the final outcomes.

[RESULTS] Skin or mucosa perforation occurred 6 cases, instabilization of screws in 22 cases, and broken of plate in 3 cases. The reasons for skin or mucosa perforation was possibly associated with circulatory disturbance due to postoperative irradiation. The bone absorption and screw loosening occured most frequently in bone defect involving mandibular angle and chin.

[CONCLUSION] High concentration of unrationable stress and irradiation were recognised to be the factors responsible for the perforation of covering tissue and screw loosening. The broken of plate was brought about possibly by stress loading and fatigue weakness of plates.