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Updated: Mar 22, 2026
A Postoperative Evaluation Guideline for Computer-Assisted Reconstruction of the Mandible
Published on: January 28, 2020
Morphological results of customized microvascular mandibular reconstruction: A comparative study
Achille Tarsitano1, Leonardo Ciocca2, Roberto Scotti2
1Maxillofacial Surgery Unit, S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Via S. Vitale 59, 40125 Bologna, Italy.
Computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) reconstruction significantly improves mandibular morphology compared to traditional methods. This virtual planning and guided surgery technique accurately restores pre-operative facial structures in mandibular reconstruction.
Area of Science:
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Biomedical Engineering
- Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- Virtual planning and guided surgery with customized plates are increasingly used for mandibular reconstruction using fibular free flaps.
- Existing literature lacks systematic analysis comparing computer-aided reconstruction to traditional freehand bent plates for morphological outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a comparative analysis of morphological results between computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) reconstructed mandibles and traditional freehand reconstructed mandibles.
- To evaluate the accuracy of CAD/CAM techniques in restoring pre-operative mandibular morphology.
Main Methods:
- A case series of 30 CAD/CAM reconstructed mandibles was compared to traditionally reconstructed mandibles.
- Pre-operative and post-operative CT scans were used to assess morphological outcomes.
- Key anatomical landmarks measured included midline deviation, mandibular angle variation, bi-gonial diameter, and chin protrusion.
Main Results:
- CAD/CAM reconstruction showed significantly better outcomes for mandibular angle (p=0.034), bi-gonial diameter (p=0.041), and chin protrusion (p=0.05).
- No significant differences were observed in midline deviation (p=0.092) between the groups.
- The study highlights the superior accuracy of CAD/CAM in specific morphological parameters.
Conclusions:
- Computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) reconstructive techniques offer a valid approach for precise mandibular reconstruction.
- This method effectively restores the pre-operative morphological situation, enhancing patient outcomes.
- CAD/CAM technology represents an advancement in achieving accurate and predictable results in complex mandibular reconstructions.
