Design and localization algorithm of flap guide plate for jaw defect based on digital 3D printing

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Plastic Surgery
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Anterolateral thigh flaps are crucial for repairing jaw defects.
• Pre-operative identification of perforating vessels can be challenging.
• Digital design and 3D printing offer potential solutions for surgical planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a 3D-printed guide plate for anterolateral thigh flap transplantation in jaw defects.
• To design a positioning algorithm to improve flap graft accuracy.
• To address challenges in vessel identification and guide plate placement.

Main Methods:

• Utilized digital design software (Rhinoceros) and 3D printing for guide plate fabrication.
• Created patient-specific jaw models from 3D scans (STL data).
• Developed a localization algorithm using an improved genetic algorithm based on CT images for flap positioning.

Main Results:

• The 3D-printed guide plate facilitated effective soft tissue repair in patients with jaw defects.
• The positioning algorithm accurately located the flap graft with minimal environmental parameters.
• Achieved precise flap graft placement and diameter parameter determination.

Conclusions:

• 3D printing and digital design provide a viable method for creating surgical guides for flap reconstruction.
• The developed positioning algorithm enhances the accuracy of flap graft localization.
• This integrated digital approach improves outcomes for anterolateral thigh flap surgery in jaw defect repair.