title: The Accuracy of Computer Image-Guided Template for Mandibular Angle Ostectomy.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Mandibular angle ostectomy (MAO) is commonly used to correct prominent mandibular angles through an intraoral approach. However, limited vision in the operative site may lead to difficulties or complications during surgery. Therefore, it is necessary to develop an effective method for helping surgeons to perform MAO more precisely and safely.
  
  
  METHODS
  In this study, we report a novel method of a computer image-guided surgical template for navigation of MAO, and evaluate its accuracy and clinical outcomes. Nine patients with a prominent mandibular angle were enrolled in this study. A pair of stereolithographic templates was fabricated by computer-aided image design and 3D printing. In all cases, bilateral MAO was performed under the guide of these templates. Post-operative effects were evaluated by 3D curve functions and maximal shell-to-shell deviations.
  
  
  RESULTS
  All patients were satisfied with their cosmetic outcomes. The mean and SD of ICC between R-Sim and R-Post were 0.958 ± 0.011; between L-Sim and L-Post, 0.965 ± 0.014; and between R-Post and L-Post, 0.964 ± 0.013. The maximal shell-to-shell deviations between the simulated mandibular contour and post-operative mandibular contour on the right and left sides were 2.02 ± 0.32 and 1.97 ± 0.41 mm, respectively.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The results of this study suggest that this new technique could assist surgeons in making better pre-surgical plans and ensure more accurate and safer manipulation for completion of this procedure.
authors.affiliation: Center of Orthognathic Surgery and Department of Orthodontics, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
authors.forename: Niansong
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Ye
authors.forename: Hu
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Long
authors.forename: Songsong
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Zhu
authors.forename: Yunqiang
authors.initials: Y
authors.lastname: Yang
authors.forename: Wenli
authors.initials: W
authors.lastname: Lai
authors.forename: Jing
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Hu
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional; D008297:Male; D008334:Mandible / Q000601:surgery*; D019637:Orthopedic Procedures; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D025321:Surgery, Computer-Assisted; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed; D055815:Young Adult