COMPLEX FACIAL RECONSTRUCTION BASED ON 3D MODELS: PRELAMINATION CASES AND LITERATURE REVIEW

3D models allowed a huge advance of reconstructive surgery. A literature review was performed in order to ascertain the current applicability of 3D modeling combined with free flaps, the most commonly used free flaps, and whether the use of 3D models alongside prelaminated free flaps has already been described. Also, two patients with significant facial disfiguration scheduled for surgeries that included 3D modeling and prelamination techniques were selected. 3D modeling is mostly used for the correction of mandibular defects with fibular free flaps. No literature reports the combined use of 3D models and prelamination, but we have demonstrated its applicability: two costume-made prelaminated free flaps were obtained and the patients achieved an important aesthetic and morphological improvement. When no local grafts or flaps are available, and a three-dimensional facial reconstruction is intended, prelamination is a complex option to be considered. This complexity can be reduced by the use of 3D models, being a personalized flap obtained in a decreased operating time. Prelamination used alongside 3D modeling can be a powerful tool in the correction of complex facial deformities.