Maximizing mastication.

Osteonecrosis of the mandible is an unfortunately common side effect following chemo and/or radiation for head and neck cancers. It’s treated by removal of dead bone often followed by fibula transfer reconstruction, with dental implantation roughly 3 months later (i.e., delayed implantation) to allow for bony union in the window. This retrospective report from Mayo argues that dental implantation simultaneous with fibula transfer (i.e. primary implantation) is a feasible way to get people eatin’ and lookin’ good 3 months sooner. | Menapace, JAMA Facial Plast Surg 2018