Use of Computer-Aided Design and Computer-Aided Manufacturing to Produce Orthognathically Ideal Surgical Outcomes: A Paradigm Shift in Head and Neck Reconstruction

Costs incurred by applying computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing techniques for the reconstruction of maxillofacial defects

“…This often resulted in a prolonged intraoperative time and suboptimal reconstruction of a region requiring a high degree of precision for optimal orthognathic and esthetic outcome (Hirsch et al, 2009). Today, CAD/CAM technology offers a reduction in the learning curve associated with osseous contouring, enhanced levels of accuracy, acceleration of the time-consuming intraoperative steps, improved esthetic contour, and improved functional outcome (Hou et al, 2011;Lethaus et al, 2011;Hayden et al, 2012;Levine et al, 2012;Foley et al, 2013).…”

“…Today, CAD/CAM technology offers a reduction in the learning curve associated with osseous contouring, enhanced levels of accuracy, acceleration of the time-consuming intraoperative steps, improved esthetic contour, and improved functional outcome (Hou et al, 2011;Lethaus et al, 2011;Hayden et al, 2012;Levine et al, 2012;Foley et al, 2013). Various studies have revealed that application of the CAD/CAM technique eliminates the need for intraoperative measurement and yields bony segments with excellent apposition, achieves faithful duplication of the preoperative plan, and requires only minimal adjustments when the osseous transplant is inset (Marchetti et al, 2006;Hirsch et al, 2009;Antony et al, 2011). Furthermore, dental implant loading is possible at the time of osseous flap harvesting with a higher degree of accuracy than conventional techniques can provide.…”

24 Mandible Reconstruction

“…The use of a double-skin paddle FFF has also been proposed as a safe and reliable way to reconstruct through-and-through anterior resections with large cutaneous defects. 2,5 Despite its limitations, the main advantage of the FFF is its unmatched sculptability. The straight bone lends itself to the replacement of lateral segments, or can be recontoured in cases of central defects.…”

Osteosarcoma of the Jaw: Classification, Diagnosis and Treatment

“…These impressive reconstructions have been further enhanced by the progressive implementation of techniques such as virtual surgical planning using computer-assisted modeling [70].…”