Replacement of the Condyle and Ascending Ramus by a Modular Endoprosthesis in Macaca fascicularis— Part 1: A Clinical and Radiographic Study

Purpose

To evaluate the feasibility of replacing the condyle and ascending ramus with a novel modular endoprosthesis in Macaca fascicularis.

Materials and Methods

Eight male adult monkeys (Macaca fascicularis) were used in this study. The right condyle and ascending ramus posterior to the lower second molar were resected. An endoprosthesis consisting of 2 modules was inserted to replace the resected segment and fixed in place using polymethylmethacrylate bone cement (Palacos). Four monkeys were sacrificed at 3 months and another 4 at 6 months postoperatively. The operated side of the mandible was then harvested, including the endoprosthesis and the stump of the mandible to which it was attached. Lateral mandibular radiographs were taken using standard settings immediately postoperatively and postsacrifice.

Results

Two monkeys presented with a fistula at the operated area 1 month postoperatively, but this resolved with a short course of antimicrobial treatment. At the time of sacrifice, no fistulas, dehiscences, or mobility of the endoprostheses was observed. There was no significant change in maximum mouth opening. At 3 months, a linear radiolucency was noted at the cement-bone interface in the 2 monkeys that previously presented with fistulas; whereas at 6 months, none of the 4 animals showed any radiolucency.

Conclusions

The use of a cemented modular endoprosthesis for replacement of the condyle and ramus unit was feasible with minimal complications allowing normal mouth opening and occlusion. Further histologic and microfocus computed tomographic studies will be done to confirm the findings.