Three-dimensional finite element analysis of the prosthetic rehabilitation for unilateral maxillary defect after free flap reconstruction

Aims: The aim of this study was to evaluate the stress on the prostheses and abutment teeth in a unilateral maxillary defect with free flap reconstruction. Methods and Materials: A three-dimensional finite element model of the human unilateral maxillary defect was constructed. Prostheses after free flap reconstruction were established. The modelling and analytical processes were performed using the ANSYS technologies. Results: The stress concentration was located at the junction of the palatal and the free flap. The highest stress value of was 49.656 Mpa. Stress distribution was uniform in the remaining posterior teeth. As for the free flap, the stress concentration were also found at the area adjacent to the palatal and the posterior area of the free flap, with a maximum stress value of 13.03 Mpa. Conclusions: Although the immediate surgical reconstruction for unilateral maxillary defect has some advantages, it might cause instability of the prostheses which may affect the overall prosthetic outcome to the point of view of biomechanics. Further research should be done to perfect this kind of treatment, leading to a successful surgical and prosthodontic rehabilitation.