Udaipur,  Paras Health Udaipur has successfully performed a complex jaw reconstruction surgery on a patient who had previously undergone extensive surgery for oral cancer. Using a microvascular free fibula flap technique, doctors reconstructed the missing portion of the jaw using the patient’s own fibula bone, along with skin and blood vessels.

The patient had earlier undergone major oral cancer surgery during which a significant portion of the cheek and jawbone, along with teeth and surrounding tissues, had to be removed. This left a major defect in the patient’s face and jaw, affecting oral function and facial appearance.

The complex reconstruction was performed by Dr. Sumit Singhal, Senior Plastic Surgeon, Paras Health Udaipur, using the microvascular free fibula flap technique. During the procedure, a segment of the fibula bone was taken from the patient’s leg along with the required skin and blood vessels. The bone was then shaped to match the missing portion of the jaw and secured in place using plates and screws.

One of the most challenging aspects of the surgery was restoring blood flow to the transplanted tissue. The blood vessels of the transplanted tissue were connected to blood vessels in the neck using a high-powered microscope and extremely fine sutures. According to the doctors, the sutures were approximately one-third the thickness of a human hair. This helped restore blood supply to the reconstructed jaw and support the survival of the transplanted tissue.

Following recovery, the patient underwent further dental rehabilitation. Permanent artificial teeth were placed on the reconstructed jaw, helping improve dental alignment and oral function while providing a stable foundation for long-term dental restoration.

Dr. Sumit Singhal said reconstructive surgery after oral cancer is not only about correcting a physical defect but also about helping patients regain essential functions and confidence. He said that when a large portion of the jaw and surrounding tissues is removed, reconstruction becomes challenging because bone, soft tissue and blood supply must be restored together.

“A fibula free flap allows us to use the patient’s own bone and tissue to reconstruct the missing jaw and provide a strong foundation for future dental rehabilitation,” Dr. Singhal said. He added that the goal is to help patients eat, speak and socialise with greater confidence. Such microsurgical reconstruction requires careful planning, specialised expertise and round-the-clock postoperative monitoring.

Anubhav Sukhwani, Facility Director, Paras Health Udaipur, said complex jaw reconstruction requires specialised surgical expertise, advanced infrastructure and coordinated multidisciplinary care. He said the hospital is strengthening its capabilities in complex procedures so that patients from Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and neighbouring regions can access advanced reconstructive treatment closer to home.

Doctors said patients undergoing extensive oral cancer surgery may experience difficulty in chewing, swallowing and speaking when portions of the jaw, cheek and teeth are removed. Changes in facial appearance can also affect quality of life. Advanced reconstructive procedures such as free fibula flap surgery can help restore the missing portion of the jaw, improve facial contour and provide a strong foundation for permanent dental implants.

Oral cancer remains a significant health concern in India, with tobacco and smokeless tobacco use among the major risk factors. Early detection and timely treatment can help reduce the need for extensive surgery in some cases. When removal of a substantial portion of the jaw and surrounding tissue is necessary, advanced reconstructive surgery can play an important role in restoring function, appearance and quality of life.