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Electromagnetic Navigation in Mandibular Reconstruction Using Autologous Grafts: A Color-Coded Assistance for Precise
Hagen1,2, Blumenstock1, Kühle2
1Institute of Medical Informatics, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 130.3, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany.
Computational and Structural Biotechnology Journal
|April 27, 2026
Summary
This study introduces a color-coded navigation system for precise bone segment positioning in virtual surgical planning (VSP) for mandibular reconstruction. The navigation system demonstrated high accuracy in model surgeries, improving upon traditional VSP methods.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Surgical Technology
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Background:
- Virtual surgical planning (VSP) is established for mandibular reconstruction but faces intraoperative positioning challenges.
- Lack of visual control and environmental deviations hinder precise bone segment placement.
- Navigation systems offer potential solutions for accurate surgical plan transfer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate a novel color-coded navigation system using electromagnetic tracking for precise bone segment positioning in mandibular reconstruction.
- To assess the system's accuracy in model surgeries utilizing 3D-printed bone models.
Main Methods:
- Developed custom software for landmark-based registration and color-coded navigation.
- Performed VSP on 11 hemimandibular defect cases and prepared surgical guides.
- Conducted model surgeries using 3D-printed bones and the navigation system, comparing results with cone beam computed tomography (CBCT).
Main Results:
- Navigated reconstructions showed high precision, with spatial differences ranging from 1.13 ± 0.75 mm to 2.95 ± 1.59 mm.
- Measurements from the navigation system closely correlated with CBCT findings.
- The system effectively assisted in precise bone segment positioning during model surgeries.
Conclusions:
- Color-coded navigation with simplified 3D visualization shows significant promise for improving bone segment accuracy in mandibular reconstruction.
- This technology has the potential to enhance intraoperative precision and patient outcomes.
- Further clinical validation is warranted to confirm its efficacy in real surgical settings.
