Advancements in Oral Maxillofacial Surgery: A Comprehensive Review on 3D Printing and Virtual Surgical Planning

Abstract

This comprehensive review explores the advancements in Orthognathic and Oral Maxillofacial Surgery, focusing on the integration of 3D Printing and Virtual Surgical Planning (VSP). Traditional surgical methods, while effective, come with inherent risks and complications, and can lead to variability in outcomes due to the reliance on the surgeon’s skill and experience. The shift towards patient-centric care necessitates personalized surgical methods, which can be achieved through advanced technology. The amalgamation of 3D printing and VSP revolutionizes surgical planning and implementation by providing tactile 3D models for visualization and planning, and accurately designed surgical guides for execution. This convergence of digital planning and physical modeling facilitates a more predictable, personalized, and precise surgical process. However, the adoption of these technologies presents challenges, including the need for extensive software training and the steep learning curve associated with computer-aided design programs. Despite these challenges, the integration of 3D printing and VSP paves the way for advanced patient care in orthognathic and oral maxillofacial surgery.

Role of Three-Dimensional Printing in Treatment Planning for Orthognathic Surgery: A Systematic Review

“…VSP has the potential to improve the surgeon's understanding of the individual anatomy of the patient, as well as to provide a computer-driven workflow for jaw reshaping, thus replacing the traditional 2D methodologies used in orthodontic surgery. Furthermore, studies have demonstrated that 3D-planned treatment regimens can improve precision and improve results [84,85].…”

Redefining precision and efficiency in orthognathic surgery through virtual surgical planning and 3D printing: a narrative review

“…By offering high levels of accuracy, time efficiency, and adaptability, VSP stands as a revolutionary tool in the realm of orthognathic surgery [ 9 , 12 ]. Its growing adoption is a testament to its effectiveness and the tangible benefits it offers to both surgeons and patients alike [ 10 , 20 ].…”

“…3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is a technology that allows for the creation of three-dimensional objects from digital models [ 21 ]. In the realm of orthognathic surgery, 3D printing has found a variety of applications, including the fabrication of surgical guides, anatomical models for preoperative planning, and even custom implants [ 10 ]. These applications enhance the precision and predictability of surgical outcomes, thereby elevating the standard of care (Fig.…”

“…Each of these technologies has its own set of advantages and limitations, making them suitable for specific applications in orthognathic surgery [ 10 ].…”

“…The advent of computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) technologies has revolutionized various fields, including healthcare. Virtual surgical planning (VSP) and 3D printing are natural extensions of these advancements, offering unprecedented precision and customization in orthognathic surgery [ 10 ]. As demonstrated in recent studies, VSP significantly reduces the time required for surgical planning compared to traditional methods [ 7 ].…”