Surgical Planning for Mandibular Distraction Osteogenesis Using Low-Cost Three-Dimensional-Printed Anatomic Models

Area of Science:

• Craniofacial Surgery
• Biomedical Engineering
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Mandibular distraction osteogenesis (MDO) is a standard surgical procedure for correcting severe mandibular hypoplasias by generating new bone and soft tissue expansion.
• A common complication of MDO is the misplacement of distractors or corticotomy, leading to inaccurate distraction vectors.
• Three-dimensional (3D) printing offers advanced preoperative planning but faces cost barriers, especially in public healthcare systems of developing nations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present the experience of utilizing low-cost 3D-printed anatomic models for preoperative planning and surgical simulation in patients undergoing MDO.
• To evaluate the feasibility and impact of affordable 3D printing in improving MDO surgical outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Development and utilization of low-cost 3D-printed patient-specific anatomic models derived from medical imaging.
• Preoperative planning and surgical simulation using these 3D models for MDO procedures.
• Clinical application and assessment of the models' effectiveness in guiding surgical execution.

Main Results:

• Low-cost 3D-printed models facilitated detailed preoperative planning and surgical simulation for MDO.
• The use of these models aided in visualizing complex anatomy and anticipating potential challenges.
• The approach demonstrated potential for reducing complications associated with distractor and corticotomy placement.

Conclusions:

• Low-cost 3D-printed anatomic models are a valuable tool for preoperative planning and surgical simulation in MDO.
• This technology can enhance surgical precision and potentially reduce complications in MDO procedures, even in resource-limited settings.
• Further adoption of affordable 3D printing in craniofacial surgery can improve patient care and surgical training.