Virtual Surgical Planning and Applications in Plastic and Craniomaxillofacial Surgery

Abstract

Advanced plastic and craniomaxillofacial reconstruction is a multidisciplinary field, requiring communication and accurate planning among various specialists including oncologic surgeons, plastic surgeons, and radiologists. Complex defects may present in pediatric congenital deformities, after trauma or oncologic surgery. Restoration of form and function require precise planning among the various specialists involved and accurate execution of the surgical plan. Often, considerations for bony and soft tissue requirements make the reconstruction more challenging. Virtual surgical planning using computed tomographic imaging, 3D surface imaging technology and computer‐aided design allow the surgeons to perform virtual surgery and generate templates and cutting guides that allow for the precise and expedient recreation of the plan in the operating room. The author presents cases highlighting various reconstructive requirements where virtual planning was used for advanced plastic and craniomaxillofacial reconstruction to achieve precise reconstruction.Support or Funding InformationNone