Abstract

The objective of this case report is to discuss the possibility of developing a surgical treatment paradigm for patients with some of the noted characteristics of Treacher-Collins syndrome, mainly mandibular ankylosis and/or retrognathia (mandibular retrusion), in a way that would provide lasting, predictable results and minimize the frequently seen mandibular ankylosis. Through various medical imaging techniques, mainly computed tomography (CT) scan, the radiology imaging technologist produces accurate CT scan images of the particular patient's osseous cranial structures. These images can then be used by the stereolithography (SLA) technician to construct accurate SLA models. The SLA models can then be used by the surgical and implant design team to not only prescribe the surgical correction necessary, but also design and construct the actual temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and mandibular implants, as well as perform mock surgery, which will be needed to restore function and esthetics for the patient. The early results from this alloplastic reconstructive surgery have provided the anticipated results of relieving the ankylosis, improving jaw function and frequently dental occlusion, as well as improving the esthetics. Without this breakthrough surgical development, many of these Treacher-Collins syndrome patients will not be able to enjoy normal breathing, mastication, jaw function, esthetics, oral and dental health, and the emotional relief these corrections allow. Many patients who suffer the disfiguring and functionally damaging affects of Treacher-Collins syndrome never receive the surgical correction necessary. Many have had autogenous reconstruction of missing mandibular and TMJ structures, only to sometimes relapse into a more disfiguring and lasting condition. By simply placing a Christensen Fossa-Eminence Prosthesis(r) (TMJ Implants, Inc., Golden CO, USA) between the cranial base and any bone graft, one is more likely to achieve satisfactory TMJ mobility. If a condylar or mandibular reconstruction is necessary, the Christensen Total TMJ Prostheses(r) (TMJ Implants, Inc., Golden CO, USA) are available and provide excellent results.

Abstract

Deformities of a totally burned face present a profound challenge to the reconstructive plastic surgeon. Skin grafting has been used traditionally for resurfacing with limited success, especially when the burns were so severe the deeper structures were destroyed. Total face reconstruction, using bilateral extended scapular free flap, has been reported previously for severe deformities following an extensive facial burn. Although this method obtained better aesthetic and functional results than skin grafting, the donor-site morbidity was relatively high, with a large scar that extended across the entire back. In addition, the nose needed to be reconstructed separately with a forehead flap or free radial forearm flap. The authors experienced a case in which a totally burned face was reconstructed successfully with a single free-expanded flap. A 54-year-old man sustained a severe facial burn with gasoline that involved the face, anterior neck, anterior chest, and bilateral upper extremities. Sequential debridement and skin grafting were required to close the burn wound. A tissue expander was inserted in his left back before the facial reconstruction. Six months after insertion of the tissue expander, the left dorsal skin was transferred to the face as one large flap, size 28x27 cm, with three sets of vascular anastomoses. The flap totally survived with abundant tissue at the central area to reconstruct the nose. With five complementary procedures, including a costal cartridge graft, the shape of the nose was restored, and acceptable functional and aesthetic results were obtained. This method did not require a separate tissue transfer for nasal reconstruction. To our knowledge, this is the first case of successful reconstruction with one flap for total face reconstruction that included the nose.