Maxilla allograft for transplantation: an anatomical study

Ann Plast Surg. 2008 Jul;61(1):105-13. doi: 10.1097/SAP.0b013e318095a7a1.

Abstract

Introduction: The aim of this study is to present an anatomic study and a dissection technique to prepare maxilla graft for transplantation.

Methods: Six fixed adult human cadavers were used for dissection of the maxilla grafts. Retrospective reviews of archives of 10 MRI and 5 angiographies of the maxillary region were performed to demonstrate the vascular and soft tissue anatomy of this area.

Results: We have harvested maxilla graft as a single unit (larger type of Le Fort II) based on arterial and venous pedicle ready for transplantation. MRI evaluation revealed the vascular structures in the masticatory space and its anterior pterygomaxillary extension. Angiographic observations have demonstrated the arterial blood supply of the maxillary region, which lies within the pterygomaxillary region that we have included in the graft.

Conclusions: We are presenting a method for harvesting of the maxilla graft, with vascular supply based on certain anatomic landmarks.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Angiography
  • Arteries / anatomy & histology*
  • Cadaver
  • Dissection
  • Humans
  • Jugular Veins / anatomy & histology
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Male
  • Maxilla / blood supply*
  • Maxilla / diagnostic imaging
  • Maxilla / transplantation*
  • Maxillary Artery / anatomy & histology
  • Mouth Mucosa / anatomy & histology
  • Mouth Mucosa / surgery
  • Osteotomy, Le Fort / methods
  • Pterygoid Muscles / anatomy & histology
  • Pterygoid Muscles / surgery
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Temporal Arteries / anatomy & histology
  • Transplantation, Homologous
  • Veins / anatomy & histology*