Surgical procedures in the facial region are associated by
a variety of difficulties. The anatomy of the maxillofacial
region, the complexity of the bony architecture as well as the
esthetic implications.
The three dimensional imaging and 3D printing, have
been applied for the restoration the complex anatomy of
craniofacial structures. In addition, mirror-imaging techniques
advocating 3D computed tomographic (CT) scanning and 3D
printing can maximize the surgical outcome on both the
functional and esthetic reconstruction levels. A synthetic
scaffold can be pre-molded to the individual prototype skull
model to resemble the anatomic contour before applying it to
cover the orbital defects.
Our aim is to show the importance and present our experience
with three-dimensional virtual planning in solving a
variety of acute and chronic clinical deformities within the
scope of trauma in the cranio maxillofacial region.
25 patients were retrospectively recruited. Mean age was
33.5 years (range 13-59), male: female ratio = 2.6:1 (18:7).
Eleven patients had acute injuries (44%) while the remaining
14 patients (56%) had chronic (malunited) fractures performed
in 2 different centers treating maxillofacial deformities operated
utilizing 3D planning protocols.
The advocation of the virtual planning techniques, three
dimension printing and printed custom implant enabled an
accurate reduction and fixation procedure of complex acute
and chronic complex upper and midface fracture, which is
reflected in very satisfactory aesthetic outcome.