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Digital Hybrid Model Preparation for Virtual Planning of Reconstructive Dentoalveolar Surgical Procedures
Published on: August 5, 2021
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Modeling Methods in Craniofacial Virtual Surgical Planning.
Edward Riordan1,2, Amanda Yung2,3, Kai Cheng4
1Department of Plastic Surgery, St George Hospital.
The Journal of Craniofacial Surgery
|February 22, 2023
Summary
This review details virtual surgical planning (VSP) modeling methods, guiding clinicians on selecting techniques like contour-based or occlusal-based planning (OBP) for optimal surgical outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Surgical Planning
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Virtual surgical planning (VSP) is widely used, but the underlying digital simulation modeling methods are often undescribed.
- Understanding these methods is crucial for effective clinical application and improved surgical outcomes.
Approach:
- A literature review was conducted on two main categories of VSP modeling techniques: contour-based planning and occlusal-based planning (OBP).
- Contour-based methods include mirroring, templating from normative databases, and landmark extrapolation.
- OBP focuses on functional occlusion for reconstructive and orthognathic procedures.
Key Points:
- Mirroring is ideal for unilateral defects requiring high contour accuracy.
- Normative data methods suit bilateral defects or craniofacial dysmorphies with asymmetry.
- OBP is essential for alveolar margin resections and standard orthognathic surgeries.
Conclusions:
- The selection of VSP modeling methods depends critically on the specific defect type and the primary goals of the surgical reconstruction.
- Complex cases, like clefts, may necessitate a combination of OBP and normative data approaches for optimal results.

