S414: Computer-Assisted Planning and Navigation in Craniomaxillofacial Surgery

Abstract

The combination of medical imaging and rapid prototyping is a rapidly expanding field with a large application potential in craniomaxillofacial reconstructive surgery. Typical applications include the making of three-dimensional models for treatment planning, the production of custom designed prostheses and the replication of segmental anatomical objects to guide the surgeon's reconstructive efforts. When 3D visualization is combined with a 3D surgery simulation and intra-operative navigation it becomes a powerful tool for precise and accurate surgical planning and execution of the treatment plan. Using intuitive, easy to follow steps, the surgeon can evaluate the patient's anatomy, perform 3D cephalometric measurements, segmentation and mirroring, simulate osteotomies and distraction surgeries in 3D. Furthermore, visualization of the surgical plan is a valuable tool to enhance communication between the surgeon and the patient, demonstrating where the bone cuts will be performed and how the segments will be repositioned during surgery. Lastly, based on this plan, surgical cutting guides and “splints” can be produced using RP technologies for an accurate transfer to the surgery.