Preliminary clinic study on computer assisted mandibular reconstruction: the positive role of surgical navigation technique

BACKGROUND The objectives of the present study were to investigate the reliability and outcomes of computer-assisted techniques in mandibular reconstruction with a fibula flap and verify whether the surgical navigation system was feasible in mandible reconstructive surgery. METHODS Eight cases were enrolled in the computer assisted surgery (CAS) group and 14 cases in the traditional group. The shaping and fixation of the fibula grafts were guided by computer assisted techniques, which could be monitored with the BrainLAB surgical navigation system. The variation of mandible configuration was evaluated by CT measurement in the Mimics software, including the variation of length, width, height and gonial angle of the mandible. The 3D facial soft tissue alteration was also analyzed in 3D chromatogram by Geomagic software. RESULTS All 22 fibula flaps survived. The mandibular configurations and facial contours had a better clinic result in the CAS group. The length, width, height and gonial angle of the reconstructive mandible were more similar to the original one. The Wilcoxon rank sum test analysis suggested significant differences in the measurements. The chromatographic analysis also visually showed superiority over the traditional group. CONCLUSIONS The computer assisted surgical navigation method used in mandibular reconstruction is feasible and precise for clinical application. The contour of the reconstructed mandible and facial symmetry are improved with computer techniques.