title: A novel 3D template for mandible and maxilla reconstruction: Rapid prototyping using stereolithography.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Replication of the exact three-dimensional (3D) structure of the maxilla and mandible is now a priority whilst attempting reconstruction of these bones to attain a complete functional and aesthetic rehabilitation. We hereby present the process of rapid prototyping using stereolithography to produce templates for modelling bone grafts and implants for maxilla/mandible reconstructions, its applications in tumour/trauma, and outcomes for primary and secondary reconstruction.
  
  
  METHODS
  Stereolithographic template-assisted reconstruction was used on 11 patients for the reconstruction of the mandible/maxilla primarily following tumour excision and secondarily for the realignment of post-traumatic malunited fractures or deformity corrections. Data obtained from the computed tomography (CT) scans with 1-mm resolution were converted into a computer-aided design (CAD) using the CT Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) data. Once a CAD model was constructed, it was converted into a stereolithographic format and then processed by the rapid prototyping technology to produce the physical anatomical model using a resin. This resin model replicates the native mandible, which can be thus used off table as a guide for modelling the bone grafts.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  This conversion of two-dimensional (2D) data from CT scan into 3D models is a very precise guide to shaping the bone grafts. Further, this CAD can reconstruct the defective half of the mandible using the mirror image principle, and the normal anatomical model can be created to aid secondary reconstructions.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  This novel approach allows a precise translation of the treatment plan directly to the surgical field. It is also an important teaching tool for implant moulding and fixation, and helps in patient counselling.
authors.affiliation: Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Lilavati Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.
authors.forename: Samir
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Kumta
authors.affiliation: Department of Chemical Engineering, Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.
authors.forename: Monica
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Kumta
authors.affiliation: Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Lilavati Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.
authors.forename: Leena
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Jain
authors.affiliation: Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Lilavati Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.
authors.forename: Shrirang
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Purohit
authors.affiliation: Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Lilavati Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.
authors.forename: Rani
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Ummul
keywords: Rapid prototyping; stereolithography; three dimensional (3D) template