Metatarsal Transplants as Replacement for Lost Mandibular Condyle (3 Years' Follow up)

Abstract

Two cases of agenesis of the mandibular condyle with the characteristic facial deformity are presented. Substitution with a 5th metatarsal bone was satisfactory both functionally and cosmetically on three years' follow up.

Some consideration is given to the question at which age a child thus disfigured should undergo surgery, and as a working hypothesis the age group from 9 to 13 years is suggested as an optimum. A pooling of the efforts is called for.

It is concluded that the 5th metatarsal is a good graft, that no disability from the donor site was observed, but that a rib graft is probably of equal value.