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Updated: May 11, 2026
A Postoperative Evaluation Guideline for Computer-Assisted Reconstruction of the Mandible
Published on: January 28, 2020
Value of preoperative mandibular plating in reconstruction of the mandible
Eitan Prisman1, Stephan K Haerle1, Jonathan C Irish1,2
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Background:
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of preoperative versus intraoperative mandibular contouring using rapid prototyping technology.
Methods:
Ten patients requiring mandibular reconstruction had a preoperative mandibular plate contoured to a fabricated 3D mandibular model based on preoperative imaging. A traditional intraoperative plate was also contoured. Two surgeons blinded to the study compared the plates with respect to conformance, surface-area contact, and best overall match. A cost-benefit analysis was then performed.
Results:
The average time to contour was 867 ± 243 seconds and 833 ± 289 seconds for the preoperative and intraoperative plates, respectively (p = .83). Interobserver analysis revealed no statistically significant differences in conformance (p = .38) or surface area contact (p = .14). In 7 of 9 cases, the preoperative plate was selected for the final reconstruction. In 1 case, an intraoperative plate was not contoured because of the lateral extent of the tumor.
Conclusion:
In cases of mandibular distortion secondary to disease, pathologic fracture or defects involving multiple mandibular subsites this method is particularly advantageous.
