[Mathematical modeling in preooperative planning for reconstructive and plastic surgery]

Social importance of skin emphasizes an importance of quality of methods of planning for reconstructive and plastic surgery. With modern technical improvement the usage of complex mathematical model based on biomechanical characteristics of tissue is possible. Two- and three-dimensional model, expert systems and mechanical analysis are used. In this work we tested the system for mechanical analysis in preoperative planning of a simple procedure of the Z-plastic, named the finite-element method. Computer model simulates tissue coverages. With geometrical data some physical characteristics are added. Complex surface of skin is marked by the grid divided in quadrangular elements. Mechanical consequences and definitive results of surgical procedure are analysed during the computer simulation of the action of tension of skin and suture material. In our analysis we found the finite-element method of great usefulness and noticed that "surgery simulators" might be an efficient way to speed-up learning curve in reconstructive surgery.