A critical inventory of preoperative skull replicas.

INTRODUCTION: Physical replicas of organs are used increasingly for preoperative planning. The quality of these models is generally accepted by surgeons. In view of the strong trend towards minimally invasive and personalised surgery, however, the aim of this investigation was to assess qualitatively the accuracy of such replicas, using skull models as an example. METHODS: Skull imaging was acquired for three cadavers by computed tomography using clinical routine parameters. After digital three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction, physical replicas were produced by 3D printing. The facsimilia were analysed systematically and compared with the best gold standard possible: the macerated skull itself. RESULTS: The skull models were far from anatomically accurate. Non-conforming rendering was observed in particular for foramina, sutures, notches, fissures, grooves, channels, tuberosities, thin-walled structures, sharp peaks and crests, and teeth. CONCLUSIONS: Surgeons should be aware that preoperative models may not yet render the exact anatomy of the patient under consideration and are advised to continue relying, in specific conditions, on their own analysis of the native computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.

Evaluation of risk of injury to the inferior alveolar nerve with classical sagittal split osteotomy technique and proposed alternative surgical techniques using computer-assisted surgery.

Neurosensory disturbance after sagittal split osteotomy is a common complication. This study evaluated the course of the mandibular canal at three positions using computed tomography (CT), assessed the risk of injury to the inferior alveolar nerve in classical sagittal split osteotomy, based on the proximity of the mandibular canal to the external cortical bone, and proposed alternative surgical techniques using computer-assisted surgery. CT data from 102 mandibular rami were evaluated. At each position, the distance between the mandibular canal and the inner surface of the cortical bone was measured; if less than 1mm or if the canal contacted the external cortical bone it was registered as a possible neurosensory compromising proximity. The course of each mandibular canal was allocated to a neurosensory risk or a non-neurosensory risk group. The mandibular canal was in contact with, or within 1mm of, the lingual cortex in most positions along its course. Neurosensory compromising proximity of the mandibular canal was observed in about 60% of sagittal split ramus osteotomy sites examined. For this group, modified classic osteotomy or complete individualized osteotomy is proposed, depending on the position at which the mandibular canal was at risk; they may be accomplished with computer-assisted navigation.

Vertical distraction of fibula transplant in a case of mandibular defect caused by shotgun injury.

This case demonstrates the successful aesthetic and functional reconstruction of a complex facial gun-shot injury with extended bone defects and soft tissue destructions using a 3-step procedure. Initially, a reconstruction plate was inserted, later a fibula transplant enabled the basic reconstruction and finally was distructed in a 3rd session. The rationale behind the sequencing of surgical sessions was the extended bony defect and soft-tissue destruction. The main problem in this type of wound is hypoxia or anoxia of the receptor bed for the transplant. A microvascular anastomosized bone transplant is necessary for sufficient oxygen tension in the recipient site. The anatomical dimensional disproportion of the transplanted free fibula graft and the shape of the mandible were corrected prior to the insertion of dental implants by means of vertical distraction.

[Evaluation of individual ceramic implants made of Bioverit with CAD/CAM technology to reconstruct multidimensional craniofacial defects of the human skull]. / Evaluierung individueller, in der CAD/CAM-Technik gefertigter Bioverit-Keramik-Implantate zur Wiederherstellung mehrdimensionaler kraniofazialer Defekte am menschlichen Schädel.

BACKGROUND: Restrictions in the bone structure of the craniomandibular region caused by malformation, traumata or malignant tumours are currently of interest in reconstructive oral and maxillofacial surgery. Methods of autologous bone transplantation are well established for reconstruction of those defects. The reconstruction and remodeling of contour-shaping defects is more difficult due to atrophy and resorption of free-transplantable tissues. Artificially induced harmful effects have been reported on harvesting in the donor area. Further available methods of alloplastic reconstruction are computer-assisted design and manufacturing systems (CAD/CAM). The advantages of individual design and fabrication are obvious in the manufacturing of defect-specific implants. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In the present study the application of individual CAD-based reconstructed bioceramic implants made of Bioverit II was evaluated in the region of the facial skull. Clinical results, patient acceptance and the analysis of the postoperative observation period of 30 months are reviewed. RESULTS: Altogether 25 individual Bioverit ceramics were implanted in the facial region. All patients were satisfied with the aesthetic results of the implantations after primary surgery. Three patients developed a need for further correction during the observation period; one implant fracture was observed. CONCLUSION: Finally, it can be stated that the preoperative expenditures in time, experts, technology and fabrication of individual CAD/CAM planned and manufactured implants are justified by the following advantages: fixed volume, reduced operating time, lack of donor morbidity, easy subsequent treatment of the material and the aesthetic results achieved.