Virtual Surgical Planning for Oncologic Mandibular and Maxillary Reconstruction.

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Biomedical Engineering
• Oncology

Background:

• Complex head and neck defects pose significant reconstructive challenges.
• Personalized medicine approaches are crucial for optimizing patient outcomes.
• Virtual surgical planning (VSP) offers a novel solution for intricate maxillofacial reconstructions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline strategies for optimizing VSP techniques.
• To review the applications, advantages, and disadvantages of VSP in oncologic head and neck reconstruction.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing computer-aided design and computer-aided modeling (CAD/CAM) for virtual surgical planning (VSP).
• Creating and manipulating three-dimensional anatomic models for resection and reconstruction planning.
• Analyzing existing studies demonstrating improvements in planning, efficiency, accuracy, and outcomes.

Main Results:

• VSP allows for precise virtual planning of complex maxillofacial resections and reconstructions.
• Studies indicate improvements in preoperative planning, operative efficiency, and accuracy.
• Postoperative outcomes are enhanced, with potential for immediate dental implantation and improved restoration.

Conclusions:

• VSP is a valuable tool for personalized medicine in complex head and neck cancer reconstruction.
• Technique optimization can further enhance the benefits of VSP.
• VSP offers significant advantages in managing maxillofacial defects, improving functional and aesthetic results.