Correction of a mandibular asymmetry using a custom-made titanium onlay

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Biomedical Engineering
• Reconstructive Surgery

Background:

• Facial deformities, particularly mandibular asymmetries, present complex clinical challenges.
• Treatment options are often limited by accuracy, predictability, and patient-specific factors.
• Patient expectations significantly influence the choice and success of corrective procedures.

Observation:

• A case of facial asymmetry caused by mandibular angle deficiency was addressed.
• Treatment involved the design and placement of a custom-made titanium onlay.
• Patient's occlusion, dental/skeletal relationships, and chin position were key considerations in limiting alternative methods.

Findings:

• A custom-made titanium onlay was successfully manufactured and placed to correct the mandibular deficiency.
• Computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacture (CAD-CAM) were utilized for the onlay's creation.
• The 3D virtual model facilitated precise design and fabrication of the implant.

Implications:

• This CAD-CAM technique demonstrates a viable and successful approach for correcting specific types of facial asymmetry.
• Customized titanium onlays offer a predictable solution when traditional methods are constrained by patient-specific anatomy and occlusion.
• The integration of digital modeling and manufacturing enhances precision in reconstructive maxillofacial surgery.