title: Computer-aided optimization of choice and positioning of bone plates and screws used for internal fixation of mandibular fractures.
abstract: The present study describes a biomechanical integrated model of the mandibular system in which the maxilla and mandible, the masticatory muscles, and the temporomandibular joints are regarded as one system. In this model, strains in plate-osteosynthesis devices for internal fixation of mandibular fractures can be minimized by optimizing their positions. The model evaluates maximal bite force strategies on all possible dental elements; it uses a linear programming technique and a muscle architecture model, resulting in muscle recruitment patterns. The shape of a "standard" lower jaw is digitized by means of a three-dimensional (3-D) coordinate retrieval device and drawn on a computer screen after its dimensions have been changed according to the clinical case at hand. The 3-D location of the fracture as well as the anatomic restrictions for screw placement can be indicated on the screen. Osteosynthesis devices can be indicated in terms of dimensions, number, and material properties.
authors: Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospital Groningen, The Netherlands.
authors: F R
authors: FR
authors: Rozema
authors: E
authors: E
authors: Otten
authors: R R
authors: RR
authors: Bos
authors: G
authors: G
authors: Boering
authors: J D
authors: JD
authors: van Willigen
mesh_terms: D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D001732:Bite Force; D001860:Bone Plates; D001863:Bone Screws; D004548:Elasticity; D004576:Electromyography; D004867:Equipment Design; D005152:Facial Muscles / Q000502:physiology; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D008334:Mandible / Q000502:physiology; D008337:Mandibular Fractures / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*; D008954:Models, Biological; D011091:Polyesters / Q000737:chemistry*; D012985:Software Design; D013314:Stress, Mechanical; D013499:Surface Properties; D013704:Temporomandibular Joint / Q000502:physiology
chemical_list: D011091:Polyesters; C033616:poly(lactide)