Early detection of bone union with transcutaneous ultrasound in the management of non-union of the mandible

Abstract The management of complicated non-union of free flap osteotomy sites is both challenging and time consuming. If external fixation has been applied it may be difficult to know when sufficient bone union has occurred for safe removal of the fixation device. The progression of bony healing is...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:British journal of oral & maxillofacial surgery 2011-12, Vol.49 (8), p.661-663
Main Authors: Avery, C.M.E, Clifford, N, Niamat, J, Vaidhyanath, R
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Adult
Biological and medical sciences
Bony Callus - diagnostic imaging
Dentistry
External fixation
Female
Fracture Healing - physiology
Fractures, Ununited - diagnostic imaging
Free Tissue Flaps
Humans
Mandibular Fractures - diagnostic imaging
Mandibular Neoplasms - surgery
Mandibular non-union
Medical sciences
Osteotomy
Otorhinolaryngology. Stomatology
Surgery
Transcutaneous ultrasound
Ultrasonography
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Summary:Abstract The management of complicated non-union of free flap osteotomy sites is both challenging and time consuming. If external fixation has been applied it may be difficult to know when sufficient bone union has occurred for safe removal of the fixation device. The progression of bony healing is conventionally monitored with radiographs or occasionally computed tomography (CT). Transcutaneous ultrasound is a simple, safe, and readily available investigation that gives early objective evidence of bone healing, reassuring both the patient and the surgeon.
ISSN:0266-4356
1532-1940
DOI:10.1016/j.bjoms.2010.09.023