PLA-based In house 3D-printed intraoperative surgical model is a time- and cost-efficient approach for mandibular reconstruction.

Abstract

Introduction. Patients with malignant mandibular reconstructive cases, commonly people often have contralateral normal side to act as a template during preoperative computer-assisted planning. Moreover, the development of Computer-Assisted Design/ Manufacturing Technology aids in the process to produce a template for cutting and/or custom fixation (pre-bending). Therefore, CAD/CAM technology has been greatly used in enhancing accuracy and reducing operation time, and minimizing possible complications due to thorough accurate planning. Method. This study displayed 5 case series incorporating In-House 3D Printed Models cases. 3D imaging was retrieved from CT scan DICOM Files, the file will then be processed to recreate a symmetrical post operative look. Furthermore, the rendered 3D File will be printed with the in-house printer using polylactic acid (PLA) Material. A sterilized 3D printed model will then be used intraoperatively to allow pre-bending of any implants for the case. Then the process, time, and cost of each case were documented. Results 100% success rate in processing all 5 cases into 3D Printed Model. The printing time consumes on average 7 hours,39 minutes (ranging from 5 hours, 59 minutes up to 9 hours, 43 minutes) and costs on average $ 1.83 on each print (ranging from $ 1.69 up to $ 2.10). Conclusion. 3D Printed reconstructed models as guidance to aid the surgeon from visualization of the post-operative look, up to intraoperative pre-bending of the implants used. Thus allowing better efficiency in reducing operation time, better post-operative look, and fewer complications. However, a bigger sample RCT will allow more detailed information.