Computer-Assisted Distraction Osteogenesis in the Treatment of Hemifacial Microsomia

To investigate the application of computer-assisted surgical planning and virtual guide in distraction osteogenesis for patients with hemifacial microsomia.

Eight patients diagnosed with unilateral hemifacial microsomia were enrolled in this study. Preoperative surgical planning and simulation were performed on three-dimensional model. Distraction was simulated on virtual model and the new morphology of the mandible was predicted. Mandibular ramus osteotomy and distractor implant was performed under the guidance of tooth-borne virtual guide. Postoperative evaluation of the intervention was performed by comparison of surgical planning and actual result.

Preoperative planning, simulation, osteotomy and distractor implant under the guidance of virtual guide were performed successfully on all patients. Tooth-borne guide defined the osteotomy line and accurate position of distractor. Facial symmetry was greatly improved. The osteogenesis and neomandible contour was checked by postoperative computed tomography, and a good matching with the preoperative planning was achieved.

Computer-assisted surgical planning and intraoperative virtual guide shows its great value in improving the accuracy of distraction osteogenesis and restoring facial symmetry. It is regarded as a valuable technique in this potentially complicated procedure.