Nonlinear Cutting Guides in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery: A Technical Note

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Surgical Oncology
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Custom cutting guides are crucial for preserving bone and anatomy during oral and maxillofacial resections.
• Nonlinear cutting guides offer potential advantages over traditional linear guides.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of nonlinear cutting guides in achieving clear resection margins.
• To explore the benefits of nonlinear guides in oral and maxillofacial surgery.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective case series of 7 patients undergoing oral and maxillofacial resections.
• Utilized custom nonlinear cutting guides for surgical planning and execution.
• Reviewed final pathology reports to identify close or positive margins.

Main Results:

• No close or positive resection margins were identified in the 7 patients.
• Nonlinear guides facilitated preservation of bone and anatomic structures.
• Potential for improved fixation, bony reconstruction, and cosmesis was observed.

Conclusions:

• Nonlinear cutting guides appear effective in achieving clear margins during oral and maxillofacial resections.
• Careful consideration of planning, manufacturing, and surgeon comfort is necessary for implementation.
• Widespread adoption of nonlinear cutting guides may be feasible within 5 years.