A Novel Method to Reconstruct the Upper and Lower Jaws Using 3D-Custom-Made Titanium Implants.

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Biomaterials Engineering
• 3D Printing in Medicine

Background:

• Gorlin syndrome can cause extensive maxilla and mandible defects, significantly impacting oral and facial structures.
• Traditional custom-made implants face limitations in addressing large bony defects and restoring full function.
• Reconstruction of significant jaw defects requires advanced solutions for optimal patient outcomes.

Observation:

• A 20-year-old male with Gorlin syndrome underwent reconstruction of large maxilla and mandible defects.
• 3D-custom-made titanium implants featuring abutment-like projections were utilized for reconstruction.
• The implants were designed using computed tomography data, simulated, and fabricated via selective milling.

Findings:

• The novel 3D-custom-made titanium implants with abutment-like projections were successfully implanted.
• No postoperative infections or foreign body reactions were observed during a 1-year follow-up.
• The implants aimed to rehabilitate oral and facial shape, esthetics, function, and occlusion.

Implications:

• This represents the first reported use of 3D-custom-made titanium implants with abutment-like projections for extensive jaw reconstruction.
• The technique shows promise in overcoming limitations of existing custom-made implants for large bony defects.
• This innovative approach may offer improved functional and esthetic rehabilitation for patients with severe maxillofacial defects.