Application of combined use of computer-assisted virtual design and three-dimensional printing in reconstruction of mandibular bone

LI Fu-tao; LI Yan; MA Jie; NIE Xin

doi:10.3969/j.issn.1009-4237.2017.09.005

Abstract：Objective To elucidate the value of computer-assisted virtual design and three-dimensional printing in the management of maxillofacial bone defect.Methods A total of 14 patients with jaw trauma and tumor were enrolled in this study.There were 9 males and 5 females with an average age of 41.5 years.The preoperative computer virtual and simulated operation was performed with digital data from CT scanning.Three-dimensional model including pre-operation,post-operation and surgical guide were printed according to computer design scheme.In the actual operation,the difference of surgical protocol and the clinical value were compared with conventional surgery.Results Fourteen patients received the preoperative design and model surgery,the operation time of traumatic patients was 2-6.5h,and the operation time of tumor patients was 3-4.5h.All patients used 3D printing model before operation to develop surgical procedures to simulate the surgical procedures.The surgical approach,surgical guide plate placement and screw implantation were consistent with the preoperative program in 13 cases.The surgery time was shortened by one hour in comparison with the operation time of conventional surgery.Patients were followed up for 3 to 6 months.For the facial contours and occlusal relationship,9 cases were satisfactory and 4 cases were fair,and 1 case was not satisfactory.Conclusion Computer-assisted virtual design provides an important basis for the design of virtual surgery and clinical data for reconstruction surgery;3D printing technology can improve the quality of operation,effectively shorten the operation time,and reduce the risk of intraoperative and postoperative complications.