Enhanced bone graft contouring for mandibular reconstruction using intraoperatively fashioned templates

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Biomaterials Science
• Reconstructive Surgery

Background:

• Reconstructing mandibular defects with free vascularized bone flaps presents challenges in accurately sizing and contouring bone grafts.
• Precise defect dimension matching is crucial for optimal aesthetic and functional outcomes in mandibular reconstruction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a novel, rapid, and reliable method for creating postablative templates of mandibular defects.
• To evaluate the utility of these templates in improving bone graft sculpting and overall reconstructive results.

Main Methods:

• Development of a method using Aquaplast, a rapid-setting splint material, to construct postablative templates of mandibular defects.
• Utilizing the templates as precise models for estimating bone graft size and shape, and planning soft tissue requirements.

Main Results:

• The Aquaplast templates provide a precise, three-dimensional model of the defect, facilitating accurate bone graft sculpting.
• The method aids in estimating internal lining and soft tissue needs for osteomusculocutaneous or fasciocutaneous flaps.
• Enhanced appreciation of defect morphology led to improved aesthetic and functional results in patients.

Conclusions:

• Aquaplast templating is an effective technique for improving the accuracy of bone graft preparation in mandibular reconstruction.
• This method enhances the surgeon's three-dimensional understanding of complex defects, leading to superior patient outcomes.