Three-dimensional printing in maxillofacial surgery: A quantum leap in future
Abstract
Although application of three-dimensional (3D) printing in oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMFS) was first reported almost 30 years back, reduction in its manufacturing cost and availability of affordable 3D printing devices have popularized its use over the past few years. The 3D-printed objects include anatomical models, occlusal splints, drilling, or cutting guides and patient-specific implants (custom made plates and reconstruction devices). The anatomical model not only assists the surgeon in better understanding of the deformity or pathology but also aids in explaining the same to the patient and relatives. Mock surgery carried out on these models improve precision and thereby reduce the operating time. The guiding splints provide an exact design and fit for the graft, thus replicating form and function of the jawbone. The patient specific implants manufactured through computer-assisted designing help in superior replication of original anatomical form. This paper intends to highlight the current applications of 3D printing in field of maxillofacial surgery in the management of facial deformity, esthetic disturbances, and jaw pathologies. Cases of condylar hyperplasia, jaw tumor, facial asymmetry secondary to joint deformity, apertognathia, and chin augmentation managed with the application of 3D printing have been described in this paper. It also discusses the history, techniques, advantages, limitations, and future scope of 3D printing technology in OMFS.
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