[Application of three-dimensional printing technique in artificial bone fabrication for bone defect after mandibular angle ostectomy].
OBJECTIVE
To investigate the application of three-dimensional (3-D) printing technique combining with 3-D CT and computer aided-design technique in customized artificial bone fabrication, correcting mandibular asymmetry deformity after mandibular angle ostectomy.


METHODS
Between April 2011 and June 2013, 23 female patients with mandibular asymmetry deformity after mandibular angle ostectomy were treated. The mean age was 27 years (range, 22-34 years). The disease duration of mandibular asymmetry deformity was 6-16 months (mean, 12 months). According to the CT data and individualized mandibular angle was simulated based on mirror theory, 3-D printed implants were fabricated as the standard reference for manufacturers to fabricated artificial bone graft, and then mandible repair operation was performed utilizing the customized artificial bone to improve mandibular asymmetry.


RESULTS
The operation time varied from 40 to 60 minutes (mean, 50 minutes). Primary healing of incisions was obtained in all patients; no infection, hematoma, and difficulty in opening mouth occurred. All 23 patients were followed up 3-10 months (mean, 6.7 months). After operation, all patients obtained satisfactory facial and mandibular symmetry. 3-D CT reconstructive examination results after 3 months of operation showed good integration of the artificial bone.


CONCLUSIONS
3-D printing technique combined with 3-D CT and computer aided design technique can be a viable alternative to the approach of maxillofacial defects repair after mandibular angle ostectomy, which provides a accurate and easy way.
Congcong
C
Shen
Yan
Y
Zhang
Qingfeng
Q
Li
Ming
M
Zhu
Yikang
Y
Hou
Miao
M
Qu
Yourong
Y
Xu
Gang
G
Chai
D000328:Adult; D018786:Bone Substitutes; D017076:Computer-Aided Design; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional / Q000379:methods*; D008334:Mandible / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D019930:Mandibular Prosthesis Implantation / Q000379:methods*; D008953:Models, Anatomic; D010027:Osteotomy / Q000009:adverse effects; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000601:surgery; D011327:Printing / Q000379:methods*; D011474:Prosthesis Design / Q000379:methods; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures / Q000379:methods; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed / Q000379:methods; D055815:Young Adult
D018786:Bone Substitutes