Rehabilitation Outcome of Implants Placed in Free Fibula Flap Versus Iliac Crest Free Flap? A Systematic Review.

Objectives: To assess the successful rehabilitation outcome of dental implants placed in free fibula flap and iliac crest free flap after maxillary or mandibular resection. Material and Method: This systematic review was done using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review guidelines published from 2000 to February 2023. Sixteen publications consisting of rehabilitation outcome of dental implants placed in free fibula or iliac crest free flap after surgical resection were included in our analysis. Results: The mean age of the included participants was 51 years. A total of 643 individuals were included. A total of 927 implants were placed in free fibula flap and 230 implants were placed in iliac crest free flap in the studies included in our review. The success rate of implants ranged between 92 and 100% in accordance to Albrektsson criteria. The follow-up ranged between 1 and 15 year. Bias due to selection showed some concern between 80 and 100%. Bias in the classification of intervention was seen in 90-100%. The overall weight was low showing 100% low bias. Conclusion: The present systematic review found no significant differences in implant survival rates between the free fibula flap and the iliac crest free flap. As such, clinical decisions for the use of implants should be made based on patient and deficit factors.