Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 23, 2026
A Postoperative Evaluation Guideline for Computer-Assisted Reconstruction of the Mandible
Published on: January 28, 2020
Three-Dimensional Accuracy of Virtual Planning and Surgical Navigation for Mandibular Reconstruction With Free Fibula
Yao Yu1, Wen-Bo Zhang1, Xiao-Jing Liu2
1Resident, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Beijing, China.
Purpose:
Although free fibula flaps are widely used for mandibular reconstruction, their 3-dimensional position is difficult to control during conventional surgery. We aimed to improve this process by using computer-aided design (CAD) and surgical navigation.
Patients And Methods:
We retrospectively reviewed 29 benign tumor patients who underwent primary unilateral mandibular reconstruction with free fibula flap. They were divided into 3 groups: group A, comprising 10 patients, underwent reconstruction based on the surgeon's experience; group B, comprising 7 patients, underwent reconstruction based on CAD; and group C, comprising 12 patients, underwent reconstruction based on CAD and surgical navigation. Condyle and gonion positions and mandibular angles were measured. Operative times were recorded.
Results:
Among the 17 patients who underwent condylar resection, the average condyle shift was greater in group A than in groups B and C (P < .05). The average gonion shift was greater in groups A and B than in group C (P < .05). The difference between the reconstructed and contralateral mandibular angles was greater in group A than in groups B and C (P < .05). The mean operative time did not differ among the 3 groups.
Conclusions:
CAD can guide mandibular angle remodeling and condyle placement. CAD and surgical navigation increase reconstruction accuracy without prolonging operative time.
