Reconstruction of maxillofacial bone defects using patient-specific long-lasting titanium implants

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Biomaterials Engineering
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Maxillofacial defects require advanced reconstructive solutions.
• Patient-specific implants offer tailored anatomical restoration.
• Titanium's biocompatibility makes it ideal for bone reconstruction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the long-term effectiveness and safety of patient-specific titanium implants in maxillofacial reconstruction.
• To assess bone fusion, functional outcomes, and patient satisfaction after using custom titanium implants.
• To analyze complications associated with titanium implants in the maxilla, mandible, and zygoma.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 16 patients undergoing maxillofacial reconstruction with patient-specific titanium implants.
• Implants manufactured via electron beam melting, selective laser sintering, or milling.
• Long-term follow-up (mean 36.7 months) assessing bone fusion, infection, malunion, function, satisfaction, subsidence, osteolysis, and complications.

Main Results:

• High success rate with only one implant failure requiring revision surgery out of 28 implants.
• No observed osteolysis or subsidence around implants; no adverse events reported.
• Excellent patient satisfaction (mean VAS score 9) and resolution of fixation/esthetic issues.

Conclusions:

• Patient-specific titanium implants are effective and safe for reconstructing various maxillofacial defects.
• 3D printed titanium implants provide a viable alternative to autogenous bone grafts, avoiding donor site morbidity.
• Customized titanium solutions achieve high esthetic and functional outcomes in maxillofacial surgery.