Rare Pindborg Tumor Successfully Treated with Innovative Rib Graft Surgery

A patient with a rare Pindborg tumor has been treated at Razumovsky Saratov State Medical University’s clinical hospital. The tumor, a calcifying epithelial odontogenic growth, affected the right mandibular ramus and part of the jawbone, leaving little supporting structure near the joint. The condition was particularly complex. The tumor had spread through the entire ramus and most of the mandibular body, leaving only a small fragment near the condylar head. Standard titanium implant reconstruction was impossible due to the lack of stable bone in that area.

The medical team chose a biological solution. Thoracic surgeon Artyom Khmara removed a full-thickness rib from the patient’s own body. Maxillofacial surgeons Galia Bakhteyeva and Daniil Kuznetsov then shaped and fixed the graft in place to restore the jaw’s structure and facial profile. This approach ruled out the usual method of using shaved rib grafts, as a full-thickness piece was necessary for stability.

The reconstruction succeeded in rebuilding the mandibular integrity. It also created a solid anatomical base for future dental prosthetics. The patient’s jaw function and facial appearance have been preserved. The use of an autograft ensured compatibility and reduced the risk of rejection. This rare case demonstrates the effectiveness of tailored biological solutions in complex maxillofacial surgeries.