Genioplasty using a simple CAD/CAM (computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing) surgical guide

BACKGROUND The present study introduces the design and fabrication of a simple surgical guide with which to perform genioplasty. METHODS A three-dimensional reconstruction of the patient's cranio-maxilla region was built, with a dentofacial skeletal model, then derived from CT DICOM data. A surgical simulation was performed on the maxilla and mandible, using three-dimensional cephalometry. We then simulated a full genioplasty, in silico, using the three-dimensional (3D) model of the mandible, according to the final surgical treatment plan. The simulation allowed us to design a surgical guide for genioplasty, which was then computer-rendered and 3D-printed. The manufactured surgical device was ultimately used in an actual genioplasty to guide the osteotomy and to move the cut bone segment to the intended location. RESULTS We successfully performed the osteotomy, as planned during a genioplasty, using the computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) surgical guide that we initially designed and tested using simulated surgery. CONCLUSIONS The surgical guide that we developed proved to be a simple and practical tool with which to assist the surgeon in accurately cutting and removing bone segments, during a genioplasty surgery, as preoperatively planned during 3D surgical simulations.