[3D spiral computerized tomography in the reconstructive treatment of malignant maxillofacial tumors]

To investigate the role of Helical CT and the usefulness of three-dimensional (3D) imaging for preoperative planning and follow-up of reconstructive maxillofacial surgery with alloplastic material in neoplastic disease involving this region.

From 1996 to 1999 eleven patients were examined with Helical CT and 3D images for planning of maxillofacial plastic and reconstructive surgery for advanced cancer of this anatomically complex region. A 3D-modulated titanium mesh (100%) or micronets was used to rebuild the anterior surface of maxillary bone and the orbital floor. The mesh was cut to the appropriate size and shape and curved where necessary. Within the residual sinusal cavity a siliconed filling was used surmounting an acrylic prosthesis with dental arch to rebuild the palate. A rehydrated bovine pericardium was affixed and moduled on the borders in two cases only. Three-dimensionally reconstructed CT images were obtained preoperatively and at least 6 months postoperatively in all patients. The images were generated on a computer workstation using the shaded surface display (SSD) software with threshold values ranging 425 to 630 HU, and a more closed window for the imaging of titanium mesh/bone interface in the postsurgical follow-up.

We always obtained an excellent complete spatial depiction of maxillofacial region both before and after surgery, with no artefacts so important as to affect the 3D reconstruction process and the image quality. Together with the head-neck surgical team we could work for preoperative planning through CT scans by different 3D points of view. The 3D reconstructed follow-up scans showed good filling of the defect in the area where the titanium mesh had been used. Then efficacious bone modelling and good biocompatibility of the alloplastic material were seen in all patients, with no inflammatory reactions.

Titanium is a well-known material, which is widely used for cranioplasty. It is a radiolucent, nonferrous metal of low atomic number that allows very clear CT and MR images to be obtained. Further Ti features are strength, biocompatibility and easy handling. 3D Helical CT scan has proved to be the most complete and accurate imaging technique for reconstructive plastic surgery with alloplastic material in advanced maxillofacial cancer, also considering the anatomic and functional complexity of this area. The prospect is provided to identify virtual 3D presurgical ablation planes. These may allow the surgeon to improve plastic reconstruction and shorten intervention time.