Split Spider Splint for Sagittal Osteotomy of Mandible

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Biomedical Engineering
• Surgical Technology

Background:

• Bilateral Sagittal Split Osteotomy (BSSO) is a complex surgical procedure.
• Potential risks include iatrogenic damage to the inferior alveolar nerve and imprecise mandibular splitting.
• Existing techniques present challenges in achieving desired outcomes and nerve protection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce the novel Split Spider Splint (SSS), a digital surgical guide.
• To describe the design concept and clinical application of the SSS.
• To demonstrate how the SSS facilitates precise osteotomy cuts in BSSO.

Main Methods:

• The SSS is designed using digital technology to track the inferior alveolar nerve's path.
• Intraoperative use of the SSS guides precise osteotomy cuts.
• A technical note detailing the design and clinical application is presented.

Main Results:

• The SSS provides a method for intraoperative guidance during BSSO.
• It aims to improve the precision of osteotomy cuts.
• The design is based on accurate tracking of the inferior alveolar nerve.

Conclusions:

• The Split Spider Splint (SSS) offers a new approach to BSSO.
• It has the potential to enhance surgical precision and reduce risks associated with the procedure.
• Further clinical evaluation is warranted to fully assess its efficacy.