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A Postoperative Evaluation Guideline for Computer-Assisted Reconstruction of the Mandible
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Digital navigation and 3D model technology in mandibular reconstruction with fibular free flap: A comparative study
Youkang Ni1, Xuedi Zhang2, Zhizhu Meng3
1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, PR China; Department of Oromaxillofacial-Head and Neck Surgery, School of Stomatology, China Medical University, PR China.
Journal of Stomatology, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
|November 26, 2020
Summary
Digital navigation improves fibular free flap (FFF) accuracy in mandibular reconstruction, enhancing patient quality of life without increasing complications. Simplifying the technology could reduce operative time for wider application.
Area of Science:
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Biomedical Engineering
- Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- Fibular free flap (FFF) accuracy is limited, impacting its use in mandibular reconstruction.
- Digital navigation and 3D printing offer potential solutions to enhance precision.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of digital navigation combined with 3D printing models in improving FFF accuracy for mandibular reconstruction.
- To compare outcomes between patients who received digital navigation-assisted FFF and those who received FFF with only 3D printing models.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective study of 34 patients undergoing FFF for mandibular defects.
- Patients were divided into a Navigation Group (n=13) using digital navigation and 3D printing, and a Control Group (n=21) using only 3D printing.
- Outcomes were assessed using hospitalization data, UW-Qol scale, and CT scans.
Main Results:
- The Navigation Group showed significantly better outcomes in mandibular angle deviation and chin deflection compared to the Control Group.
- Quality of life scores for appearance, motion, and anxiety were significantly higher in the Navigation Group.
- No significant difference in early postoperative complications was observed between groups, though operation time was longer in the Navigation Group.
Conclusions:
- Digital navigation significantly improves the accuracy of FFF in mandibular reconstruction.
- The technology does not substantially increase postoperative complications, but operation time needs optimization.
- Simplifying digital navigation systems could expand its clinical application in reconstructive surgery.
