Three-Dimensional-Printed Temporal Mandibular Joint for Use in Mandibular Distraction for Patients With Craniofacial...

The objective of this study is to validate the proof of concept of a 3-dimensional (3D)-printed temporal mandibular joint (TMJ) for use in mandibular distraction in patients with severe craniofacial microsomia (CFM). Patients with Pruzansky-Kaban IIB and III have severe condylar dysplasia and abnormal or absent TMJs, often resulting in upper airway obstruction during infancy. As these patients progress, they require subsequent surgeries to correct facial asymmetry and TMJ function. While studies have shown promising outcomes with costochondral grafting or mandibular distraction without a TMJ in the setting of patients with Pruzansky-Kaban IIB and III it is often unsuccessful in avoiding tracheostomy during infancy. Using an adult head and neck cadaver, the right condylar head was removed to emulate a Pruzansky-Kaban III mandible. A 3D model of an adult skull was obtained. The 3D TMJ was replaced into the cadaver and KLS distractor applied in the vertical orientation. The authors achieved adequate distraction using a 3D-printed TMJ. The 3D structure developed here can potentially be used for clinical application in CFM patients with absent or rudimentary TMJ for distraction and further avoidance of the need for tracheostomy for airway obstruction.