A technique of intubation is presented, which can be a valuable alternative to tracheostomy. The tube is passed through a submental incision into the oral cavity.
16 adults were treated by inferior repositioning of the maxilla. Miniaturized plates were used for stabilizing the jaw in its new position. No interpositional bone grafts were used but the osteotomy spaces were covered by strips of cancellous iliac bone. Healing was uncomplicated. Retrospective cephalometric study of the results of treatment showed a mean frontal vertical relapse of about 20% (range 0–100%). The relapse occurred during the early postoperative period. No linear correlation was found between the amount of vertical repositioning and the anterior vertical relapse. We consider that the mini-plate technique is more advantageous than previous methods.
The hard and soft tissue changes brought about by Le Fort II osteotomies on 13 non-cleft patients were studied using pre-operative, immediate post-operative and follow up lateral cephalograms. The cephalometric analysis was carried out using a digitizer linked to a microcomputer. The results are compared with a similar study previously reported for cleft patients.
An alternative method to temporary lower jaw reconstruction with a reconstruction plate prosthesis is described. To prevent penetration of an alloplastic condyle transplant through the skull base, and to restore joint function, we have reimplanted the resected condyle after its fixation to the reconstruction plate. Postoperatively, there have been no complications. Joint function has been almost completely restored. The reimplanted condyle has been investigated after 28 months. It has undergone remarkable changes.
The regeneration of vascularized nerve grafts was compared with conventional free “cable” grafts.
For the creation of a vascularized femoral nerve graft in the rat an arteriovenous fistula was constructed to overcome blood flow problems. The histo-morphological results showed better and more rapid regeneration in the group with a vascular pedicle. The arteriovenous fistulae were all patent even after five months.
A significantly successful procedure for tongue stabilization, used in six cases of severe war injuries to the mandible, which prevents the serious complications of tongue prolapse, is here presented.
The procedure consists of a the insertion of horseshoe-shaped Kirschner wire, the ends of which are fixed to the posterior mandibular segments, thus acting as a scaffolding for the lacerated soft tissues of the anterior two-thirds of the tongue, floor of the mouth and the submandibular region.
This technique provides an acceptable appearance and assists feeding, reduces dribbling and dryness of the tongue, limits the likelihood of infection of the soft tissues of the floor of the mouth with subsequent contracture, affords scaffolding for the soft tissues, foundation for bone grafts, and permits greater freedom in augmenting the vermilion of the lower lip.


