title: Combining use of resin models with external fixation in mandibular reconstruction.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To obtain accurate occlusion in mandibular reconstruction when the tumor is exophytic, which makes prebending the plate impossible.
  
  
  METHODS
  Use of computed tomography-based resin models and external fixation devices is combined in a tertiary academic center. The exophytic part of the tumor on the model is burred off, and the reconstruction plate is bent on the model before surgery. Temporary external fixation is applied before resection, and a precontoured plate is applied following segmental resection before the release of external fixation.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Six patients underwent mandibular reconstruction by using this technique, and all of the patients retained a class 1 occlusal relationship without need for additional intraoperative plate contouring.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Computer-generated resin models of the mandible combined with intraoperative temporary external fixation allow the maintenance of preoperative occlusal status.
authors.affiliation: Department of Otolaryngology--Head and Neck Surgery, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W Markham, Slot 543, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA. vuralemrea@uams.edu
authors.forename: Emre
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Vural
authors.forename: James C
authors.initials: JC
authors.lastname: Yuen
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001860:Bone Plates; D016025:Bone Transplantation / Q000379:methods; D017076:Computer-Aided Design; D003766:Dental Occlusion; D004867:Equipment Design; D016267:External Fixators; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008334:Mandible / Q000601:surgery*; D008339:Mandibular Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery; D008875:Middle Aged; D008953:Models, Anatomic; D010027:Osteotomy / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods; D010347:Patient Care Planning; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures / Q000379:methods*; D012117:Resins, Synthetic; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed
chemical_list: D012117:Resins, Synthetic