Reconstruction of Maxillary Defects Using Virtual Surgical Planning and Additive Manufacturing Technology: A Tertiary...

Area of Science:

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

Background:

• Maxillary reconstruction presents significant surgical challenges due to complex anatomy.
• Conventional flap-based reconstructions have limitations.
• Advances in technology offer new possibilities for treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the application of virtual surgical planning (VSP) and additive manufacturing in complex maxillary reconstruction.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of these technologies in achieving optimal functional and aesthetic outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Case studies detailing the management of four complex maxillary reconstruction procedures.
• Utilized VSP for pre-operative planning and assessment.
• Employed additive manufacturing (3D printing) for patient-specific implants and reconstruction guides.

Main Results:

• VSP and additive manufacturing facilitated precise surgical planning and execution.
• Achieved optimal outcomes in terms of form, function, and aesthetics.
• Demonstrated advantages including increased accuracy, reduced operative time, and fewer complications compared to conventional methods.

Conclusions:

• VSP and additive manufacturing represent a promising alternative for complex maxillary defect reconstruction.
• These technologies enable accurate anatomical restoration and improved dental rehabilitation.
• Patient-specific implants eliminate the need for separate donor sites, simplifying the reconstructive process.