Maxillomandibular Reconstruction Using Insourced Virtual Surgical Planning and Homemade CAD/CAM: A Single-Center Evolution in 75 Patients.

BACKGROUND

Virtual surgical planning (VSP) and computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) of surgical guides and jigs have dramatically changed the predictability of bony reconstruction of the jaw. VSP craftsmanship can lead to precision and enables the surgeon to complement the donor bone osteotomies with bony resection of the jaw. In recent years, immediate dental rehabilitation has become an integral part of VSP. However, outsourced CAD/CAM technology is expensive and may not be an option for many institutions worldwide.

METHODS

The authors present here a consecutive series of 75 maxillofacial reconstructions from 2015 to 2020. We established an insourced "in-house" protocol for VSP and "home-made" CAD/CAM for the reconstruction of maxilla-mandibular defects with fibula, iliac crest, and scapular angle flaps. All patient files were analyzed retrospectively, and relevant parameters influencing the reconstructive outcome were determined.

RESULTS

The authors went from a fibula-based protocol toward the selection of optimal vascularized bone for immediate placement of osteointegrated implants. Bone flap survival was 94.7% after 4 months. The 3-year patient survival is 77.6%. The authors show the multiple steps required for the routine use of in-house CAD/CAM and report the related financial balance.

CONCLUSIONS

Insourced VSP and CAD/CAM has evolved into a valuable strategy in maxillomandibular reconstruction that promotes accuracy and precision and allows for occlusion-based planning with quality-of-life and aesthetic outcomes as essential parts of the reconstruction even in high-level oral cancers. Further reductions in the hardware and software acquisition costs may lead to widespread implementation of this innovative technology.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, IV.