Application of virtual planning to maxillofacial reconstruction with an implant prosthesis: a case report

A case of postoperative mandibular defects was successfully managed using an intraoral scanner and computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology, facilitating jaw reconstruction and functional restoration with implants for a critical mandibular defect.

The intraoral scanner was used to scan the maxilla and mandible, and occlusal scans were acquired. The obtained data were imported to CAD/CAM software to design the virtual teeth. Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine data of preoperative cone-beam computed tomography images were converted to three-dimensional (3D) data using specialized software to examine the mandibular bone volume and modify the jawbone morphology. All data were superimposed on the implant simulation software, and jawbone morphology was modified considering the implant placement position. The finalized jawbone 3D data were printed using a 3D printer. Then, a titanium mesh tray was fabricated on the 3D printed model. Subsequently, iliac cancellous bone grafting using a titanium mesh tray and implant treatment were performed.

The application of digital technology helped visualize the final image of the treatment result and collaborate closely with the oral surgeon from the pre-reconstruction stage. This technique allows mandible reconstruction after considering the implant placement based on the ideal prosthesis.