Titanium Reconstruction Plate Research Articles

Special contoured pelvic brim reconstruction titanium plate combined with trans-plate buttress screws (quadrilateral screws) for acetabular fractures with quadrilateral plate involvement through the anterior ilioinguinal approach

Special contoured pelvic brim reconstruction titanium plate combined with trans-plate buttress screws (quadrilateral screws) for acetabular fractures with quadrilateral plate involvement through the anterior ilioinguinal approach

On effect of residual stress on fracture behavior of mandibular reconstruction plates

Titanium reconstruction plates are often used to bridge mandibulectomy defects in load bearing scenarios when bone grafts are not well integrated to the host bone. The residual stress within a standard reconstruction plate is generated when being bent and installed to adapt to a patient-specific anatomical contour and it may have a detrimental effect on the structural stability and reliability of the reconstruction system. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of residual stress on the mechanical strength of the reconstructed mandibular system by utilizing both conventional finite element method (FEM) and eXtended Finite Element Method (XFEM). The mechanical stresses introduced by plate pre-bending and screw tightening were first modeled computationally and the residual stress data induced by the surgical procedure was incorporated to the deformed reconstruction plate for the subsequent biomechanical evaluation. Static and cyclic loading conditions were then imposed on the mandibular plate models to further investigate two common failure types, namely overloading fracture and fatigue fracture. It is revealed that the residual stress could considerably increase the susceptibility of plate fracture. The simulation results demonstrate that the pre-stresses induced by screw tightening are more substantial than that from plate bending during the surgical procedure. The finding is of important clinical implications for surgeons who are commonly involved in selecting and preparing different forms of fixation plates for mandibular reconstruction. This study helps elucidate the key factors contributing on the failure of reconstruction plates and guide the development of more robust and durable mandibular reconstruction systems.

Biomechanical evaluation of CAD/CAM magnesium miniplates as a fixation strategy for the treatment of segmental mandibular reconstruction with a fibula free flap

Titanium patient-specific (CAD/CAM) plates are frequently used in mandibular reconstruction. However, titanium is a very stiff, non-degradable material which also induces artifacts in the imaging. Although magnesium has been proposed as a potential material alternative, the biomechanical conditions in the reconstructed mandible under magnesium CAD/CAM plate fixation are unknown. This study aimed to evaluate the primary fixation stability and potential of magnesium CAD/CAM miniplates. The biomechanical environment in a one segmental mandibular reconstruction with fibula free flap induced by a combination of a short posterior titanium CAD/CAM reconstruction plate and two anterior CAD/CAM miniplates of titanium and/or magnesium was evaluated, using computer modeling approaches. Output parameters were the strains in the healing regions and the stresses in the plates. Mechanical strains increased locally under magnesium fixation. Two plate-protective constellations for magnesium plates were identified: (1) pairing one magnesium miniplate with a parallel titanium miniplate and (2) pairing anterior magnesium miniplates with a posterior titanium reconstruction plate. Due to their degradability and reduced stiffness in comparison to titanium, magnesium plates could be beneficial for bone healing. Magnesium miniplates can be paired with titanium plates to ensure a non-occurrence of plate failure.

Applicative Assessment of a Selective Laser Melting 3D-Printed Ti-6Al-4 V Plate with a Honeycomb Structure in the Reconstruction of a Mandibular Defect of a Beagle Dog.

The most challenging problem in oral and maxillofacial surgery is the reconstruction of defects for the oral and maxillofacial complex. Transfer of different autografts is known as the "gold standard" for the reconstruction of bone defects in the oral and maxillofacial region. Graft harvesting, however, can lead to many complications, such as donor-site morbidity, surgical time-consuming, etc. Three-dimensional (3D) printing technology is an innovative technique that allows the fabrication of personalized plates and scaffolds to fit the precise anatomy of an individual's defect. In this study, a selective laser melting 3D-printed Ti-6Al-4 V plate with a honeycomb was designed, and its physical and biological features were characterized. The personalized 3D-printed scaffold and commercialized titanium reconstruction plate were applied to reconstruct a 4 cm mandibular defect in a beagle dog. Effects of the treatment were analyzed radiologically and histologically. Our results showed that the application of a 3D-printed plate with a honeycomb achieved good biocompatibility and osseointegration and has potential clinical application.

Impact of the adjacent bone on pseudarthrosis in mandibular reconstruction with fibula free flaps

BackgroundMechanical and morphological factors have both been described to influence the rate of pseudarthrosis in mandibular reconstruction. By minimizing mechanical confounders, the present study aims to evaluate the impact of bone origin at the intersegmental gap on osseous union.MethodsPatients were screened retrospectively for undergoing multi-segment fibula free flap reconstruction of the mandible including the anterior part of the mandible and osteosynthesis using patient-specific 3D-printed titanium reconstruction plates. Percentage changes in bone volume and width at the bone interface between the fibula/fibula and fibula/mandible at the anterior intersegmental gaps within the same patient were determined using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Additionally, representative samples of the intersegmental zones were assessed histologically and using micro-computed tomography (µCT).ResultsThe bone interface (p = 0.223) did not significantly impact the change in bone volume at the intersegmental gap. Radiotherapy (p < 0.001), time between CBCT scans (p = 0.006) and wound healing disorders (p = 0.005) were independent risk factors for osseous non-union. Preliminary analysis of the microstructure of the intersegmental bone did not indicate morphological differences between fibula–fibula and fibula–mandible intersegmental bones.ConclusionsThe bone interface at the intersegmental gap in mandibular reconstruction did not influence long-term bone healing significantly. Mechanical and clinical properties seem to be more relevant for surgical success.

Surgical treatment of craniocervical instability: comparison of two constructs regarding clinical and radiological outcomes of 100 patients

PurposeThere is an increased demand for surgical solutions to treat craniocervical instability. This retrospective study demonstrates the clinical and radiological outcomes of unstable craniocervical junction treated with occipitocervical fusion.Material and methodsThe mean age of 52 females and 48 males was 56.89 years. The clinical and radiological outcomes were assessed, including NDI, VAS, ASIA score, imaging, complications and bony fusion in two used constructs: a modern occipital plate–rod–screw system (n = 59) and previous bilateral contoured titanium reconstruction plates–screws (n = 41).ResultsClinically and on imaging, patients presented with neck pain, myelopathy, radiculopathy, vascular symptoms and craniocervical instability. The mean follow-up was 6.47 years. A solid bony fusion was achieved in 93.81% of the patients. The NDI and the VAS improved significantly from 28.3 and 7.67 at the presentation to 16.2 and 3.47 at the final follow-up. The anterior and posterior atlantodental interval (AADI and PADI), the clivus canal angle (CCA), the occipitoaxial angle (OC2A) and the posterior occipitocervical angle (POCA) improved significantly. Six patients required early revision.ConclusionOccipitocervical fusion can yield excellent results regarding clinical improvement and long-term stability with a high fusion rate. Simple reconstruction plates, though more demanding surgically, achieve similar results. Preserving a neutral patient’s position for fixation avoids postoperative dysphagia and may help prevent adjacent segment disease development.

Straight-segment mandibulectomy: a reproducible porcine mandibular critical-size defect model

Porcine mandibular defect models are commonly used for the preclinical evaluation of reconstruction techniques. Existing studies vary in technique, complexity, and postoperative outcomes. The procedures are complex and often described without sufficient detail. We describe in detail a simple and reproducible method for creating a critical-size mandibular defect in a porcine model. Seven hemimandibular critical size defects were created in five male Yorkshire-Landrace pigs, three with unilateral defects and two with bilateral defects. A transverse incision was made over the mandibular body. Periosteum was incised and elevated to expose the mandibular body and a critical-size defect of 30 × 20 mm created using an oscillating saw. The implant was inserted and fixed with a titanium reconstruction plate and bicortical locking screws, and the wound closed in layers with resorbable sutures. Intraoral contamination was avoided. Dentition was retained and the mental nerve and its branches preserved. The marginal mandibular nerve was not encountered during dissection. All pigs retained normal masticatory function, and there were no cases of infection, wound breakdown, haematoma, salivary leak, or implant-related complications. The procedure can be performed bilaterally on both hemimandibles without affecting load-bearing function. All pigs survived until the end point of three months. Postoperative computed tomographic scans and histology showed new bone formation, and a three-point bend test showed the restoration of biomechanical strength. Straight-segment mandibulectomy is a simple and reproducible method for the creation of critical-size mandibular defects in a porcine model, simulating a load-bearing situation.

Approach for Mandibular Reconstruction Using Vascularized Free Fibula Flap: A Review of the Literature.

Mandible reconstruction is one of the major challenges that face any maxillofacial surgeon worldwide. Different approaches and methods are used for mandible reconstruction, including pedicle flaps, titanium reconstruction plates, and bone grafts. A free fibular flap is used commonly and is considered the gold standard in mandibular reconstruction with a good success rate. Advantages of the free fibula flap include the long pedicle, flexible skin island, good length of dense cortical bone, consistent bone shape, minimal donor site morbidity, superior union rate, anti-collapse effectiveness, segmental blood supply, the potential for two skin paddles, and ease of harvest with a flap survival rate up to 95%. This current review aims to illustrate the approach for mandibular reconstruction using a vascularized free fibula flap.

Malignant Sternal Tumors: Report of Two Cases

Primary malignant sternal tumors are rare clinical entities. We came across two such patients with primary sternal tumors. One was a chondroblastic osteosarcoma while the other was a chondrosarcoma. One patient received neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by surgery. The second patient underwent upfront surgery. Both cases received wide excision of the tumor (sternum along with part of medial ends of bilateral clavicles and upper ribs). Reconstruction was done using autologous bone graft with prolene mesh in one case and titanium reconstruction plates in the other case. Both cases received coverage with pectoralis major muscle flaps.

Ten-Year Experience of Chest Wall Reconstruction: Retrospective Review of a Titanium Plate MatrixRIB™ System.

Chest wall tumor resection can result in a large defect that can pose a challenge in reconstruction in restoring chest wall contour, maintaining respiratory mechanics, and improving cosmesis. Titanium plates were first introduced for treating a traumatic flail chest, which yielded promising results in restoring chest wall stability. Subsequently, the applications of titanium plates in chest wall reconstruction surgery were demonstrated in case reports and series. Our center has adopted this technique for a decade, and patients are actively followed up after operation. Here, we retrospectively analyze our 10-year experience of using titanium plates and other reconstruction approaches for chest wall reconstruction, in terms of clinical outcomes, complications, and reasons for reoperation to determine long-term safety and efficacy. Thirty-eight patients who underwent chest wall resection and reconstruction surgery were identified. Of these, 11 had titanium plate insertion, 11 had patch repair or flap reconstruction, and the remaining 16 had primary closure of defects. Chest wall reconstruction using titanium plate(s) and patch repair (with or without flap reconstruction) was associated with larger chest wall defects and more sternal resections than primary closure. Subgroup analysis also showed that reconstruction by the titanium plate technique was associated with larger chest wall defects than patch repair or flap reconstruction [286.80 cm2 vs. 140.91 cm2 (p = 0.083)]. There was no 30-day hospital mortality. Post-operative arrhythmia was more commonly seen following chest wall reconstruction compared with primary closure (p = 0.041). Furthermore, more wound infections were detected following the use of titanium plate reconstruction compared with the patch repair (with or without flap reconstruction) approach (p = 0.027). In conclusion, the titanium plate system is a safe, effective, and robust approach for chest wall reconstruction surgery, especially in tackling larger defect sizes.

Resection of Giant Cemento-Ossifying Fibroma of Jaws by Intraoral Approach—A Case Report and Review

Introduction: The World Health Organization in 1971 first classified fibro-osseous lesions (FOLs) as cementum forming tumors of jaws as ossifying fibroma (OF), cement-osseous dysplasia, and fibrous dysplasia. Various theories have been put forward regarding the origin of cemento-ossifying fibroma (COF) but current interests are oriented toward traumatic and developmental etiologies. The COFs are a slow-growing osteoexpansile tumor which grows to a considerable size. The tumor usually arises from tooth bearing and periodontal ligament region basically of odontogenic origin. Background: An inordinate, bony hard swelling, present united in both the jaws showing radiopaque-radiolucent mass, corticated margins, with expansion of buccal as well as lingual cortex gives a delusional image for the provisional diagnosis for surgeon, particularly to decide the surgical approach. These traits showing similarity with FOLs, more particularly cemento-OF, owing to its odontogenic or periodontal origin. Case Report: In this case, a 42-year-old female presented with abovementioned features was first taken for biopsy and then planned for simultaneous surgical resection of pathology for both jaws, from an intraoral approach giving a scar-free result. Preclusion of immediate complications was dealt with reconstruction of mandible with 2.5-mm titanium reconstruction plate. Conclusion: The diagnosis of cement-OF is based on clinical-radiographic-histopathologic evaluation. If remain untreated, these tumor can grow up to an average size of 80 mm, therefore, demanding an early surgical intervention. In our case, intraoral approach leads to almost no residual fibrosed tissue. The patient is further being planned for rehabilitation with either free fibula graft or 3-dimensional mandibular prosthesis.

Surgical Plate Fixation of Simple Rib Fractures: A Case Report

Introduction: Rib fractures can cause patient morbidity that causes long hospitalization if conservative treatment is carried out. Current international guidelines recommend a minimally incisional surgical-based treatment approach to reduce pain and provide optimal clinical benefit. Numerous studies have demonstrated that surgical fixation in conjunction with multidisciplinary integrated care pathways offers the highest therapeutic benefit for developing countries, which are typically more accountable for a higher share of unfavorable global outcomes. This case report describes the selection of appropriate decision-making in the management of multiple rib fractures. Case description: We report that a 51-year-old, still actively working young female came to our emergency department after a motorcycle accident, left chest hitting the road boundary, 2 days earlier. He presented with severe upper chest pain, chest deformity, mild dyspnea, tachycardia, subcutaneous emphysema, and hematoma. The chest radiograph shows a hypo ventilated lung field and a minor pleural effusion. A computed tomography scan showed right lateral rib fractures 3–4 posterior and 5–6 posterolateral, with areas of hyperdensity of simple bone fragments, and pulmonary contusion. Treatment consists of minimal incision with surgical fixation of the 5th and 6th posterolateral ribs which causes pain. For rib fractures 3-4, because it is stable and protected by the scapula, we only perform conservative measures. Rib fixation uses titanium reconstruction plates and cortical fixing screws. The patient's clinical condition improved rapidly postoperatively with a length of stay of 2 days after surgery. Follow-up at 6 weeks, the patient confirmed a full return to preoperative daily activities with the return to normal work activities as well as high quality of life. Conclusion: In this case report, reported that in rib fractures in a developing country, thoracic trauma can be treated through medical treatment with minimal incisions which allows rapids recovery of the patient.

The 3D-printed miniplate-jig system: a new, rapid, precise, and user-friendly approach to miniplate fixation of free-tissue mandibular reconstructions

Patient-specific, additively manufactured (printed) titanium reconstruction plates have been widely used to improve accuracy and efficiency of fibular flap reconstruction of the mandible. Miniplates possess some potential advantages over single-piece reconstruction plates, however multiple-miniplate fixation can be more technically demanding and may lengthen the duration of surgery. Furthermore, incremental angulation errors in screw placement for each miniplate could compromise overall dimensional accuracy of the neomandibular reconstruction. This preliminary article reports the first clinical use of a new patient-specific, printed titanium miniplate-jig system in a patient undergoing hemimandibulectomy for osteoradionecrosis of the mandible withfibular flap reconstruction. Our initial experience with the new deviceand technique demonstratesa quick, user friendly, and precise method for the placement and fixation of multiple miniplates in fibular-flap reconstruction of the mandible.

Patient-Specific Bioimplants and Reconstruction Plates for Mandibular Defects: Production Workflow and In Vivo Large Animal Model Study.

A major challenge with extensive craniomaxillofacial bone reconstruction is the limited donor-site availability to reconstruct defects predictably and accurately according to the anatomical shape of the patient. Here, patient-specific composite bioimplants, consisting of cross-linked poly(trimethylene carbonate) (PTMC) networks and β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP), are tested in vivo in twelve Göttingen minipigs in a large mandibular continuity defect model. The 25mm defects are supported by patient-specific titanium reconstruction plates and receive either osteoconductive composite bioimplants (PTMC+TCP), neat polymer network bioimplants (PTMC), autologous bone segments (positive control), or are left empty (negative control). Postoperatively, defects treated with bioimplants show evident ossification at 24 weeks. Histopathologic evaluation reveals that neat PTMC bioimplant surfaces are largely covered with fibrous tissue, while in the PTMC+TCP bioimplants, bone attached directly to the implant surface shows good osteoconduction and histological signs of osteoinductivity. However, PTMC+TCP bioimplants are associated with high incidence of necrosis and infection, possibly due to rapid resorption and/or particle size of the used β-TCP. The study highlights the importance of testing bone regeneration implants in a clinically relevant large animal model and at the in situ reconstruction site, since results on small animal models and studies in nonloadbearing areas do not translate directly.

Custom 3D printed titanium reconstruction plate with in-situ tissue engineering for the reconstruction and dental rehabilitation of a severely infected atrophic mandible. A review of technique

This article aims to introduce the novel technique of utilization of a custom 3D titanium printed reconstruction combined with in-situ tissue engineering for the reconstruction and dental rehabilitation of an infected severely atrophic mandible. A 3-staged approach was used to remove the failing implants and debride the mandible, eradicating the infection, followed by reconstruction of the severely atrophic mandible using tissue engineering supported by a customized 3D-printed titanium undercarriage and reconstruction plate for vertical and horizontal augmentation. Finally, a CAD/CAM 3D-printed surgical guide was used for optimal placement of 4 dental implants. A predictable and satisfactory reconstruct of a severely infected mandible with failing hardware to full dental rehabilitation and aesthetics was achieved by utilizing an amalgamation of state-of-the-art technology and tissue engineering.

Metal on metal - removal of an extruding mandibular titanium reconstruction plate with a high-speed electrical surgical drill.

Metal on metal - removal of an extruding mandibular titanium reconstruction plate with a high-speed electrical surgical drill.

Pre-contoured reconstruction plate fabricated via three-dimensional printed bending support.

A mandibular continuity defect can be repaired using either a prosthetic device or autogenous bone. A titanium reconstruction plate can be used with a localized or vascularized flap over the defect of the mandible. Unfortunately, the plate may fail due to plate exposure, screw loosening, fracture, or infection, and will need to be removed. Plate exposure though the skin or mucosa is one of the main reasons for failure. In the present work, the authors introduced a lingually positioned reconstruction plate fabricated via three-dimensional printed bending support. This custom reconstruction plate can avoid plate re-exposure as well as reduce surgical errors and operation time.

Evaluation of bone regeneration in mandible large defect using undifferentiated adipose stem cells loaded on gelatin carrier: An animal model case study

Background. Large mandibular defects are considered difficult reconstructive challenges for oral and maxillofacial surgeons. Cell therapy, as an alternative technique, might increase the speed of bone regeneration. This study aimed to investigate bone regeneration in large defects of dog mandibles using allogenic adipose-derived stem cells on gelatin foam as a cell carrier. Methods. The tissue engineering phase consisted of the sampling of adult dogs’ adipose tissue that can easily be isolated from adipose stem cells (ASCs) of the dogs, ASCs were cultured in Dulbecco’s Modified Eagle’s Medium (DMEM, Gibco, USA) with low glucose, containing 10% fetal bovine serum (FBS) (Sigma, USA) and 1% penicillin-streptomycin (Gibco, USA), with the characterization of dog ASCs and gelatin-transplanted ASCs. Six dogs were included in this experimental study in the next step and randomly assigned to the treatment and control groups. The samples in both groups underwent surgery under general anesthesia to create uniform 3-cm bony defects. The samples in both groups were reconstructed with titanium reconstruction plates and screws. A large bone gap filled with ASCs (5×106 ) was seeded on gelatin (ASCs) in the treatment group. In the control group, bony defects were filled with a cell delivery carrier without ASCs. Six months after transplantation, the animals’ mandibles were evaluated by CT scan imaging, and the results were quantified through the Hounsfield unit (HU). The data were analyzed with t-test. Results. Before transplantation, the nature of the stem cells was confirmed by the expression of CD44 and CD105 cell markers at 71.9% and 89.3%, respectively, and a lack of the CD45 cell marker expression at 2.2%. Evaluation of CT scan images showed significantly higher bone repair in the ASCs group (920.25±572.92 HU) than in the control group (-94.746± 08.42). Conclusion. The bone regeneration of the ASCs group was significantly higher than that in the control group.

Low-Cost, Three-Dimensionally-Printed, Anatomical Models for Optimization of Orbital Wall Reconstruction.

Orbital blowout fracture reconstruction often requires an implant, which must be shaped at the time of surgical intervention. This process is time-consuming and requires multiple placement trials, possibly risking complications. Three-dimensional printing technology has enabled health care facilities to generate custom anatomical models to which implants can be molded to precisely match orbital anatomy. The authors present their early experience with these models and their use in optimizing orbital fracture fixation. Maxillofacial computed tomographic scans from patients with orbital floor or wall fractures were prospectively obtained and digitally reconstructed. Both injured-side and mirrored unaffected-side models were produced in-house by stereolithography printing technique. Models were used as templates for molding titanium reconstruction plates, and plates were implanted to reconstruct the patients' orbital walls. Nine patients (mean age, 15.5 years) were included. Enophthalmos was present in seven patients preoperatively and resolved in six patients with surgery. All patients had excellent conformation of the implant to the fracture site on postoperative computed tomographic scan. Postoperative fracture-side orbital volumes were significantly less than preoperative, and not significantly different from unfractured-side orbital volumes. Total model preparation time was approximately 10 hours. Materials cost was at most $21. Plate bending time was approximately 60 seconds. Patient-specific orbital models can speed the shaping of orbital reconstruction implants and potentially improve surgical correction of orbital fractures. Production of these models with consumer-grade technology confers the same advantages as commercial production at a fraction of the cost and time. Therapeutic, IV.

Clinical analysis of reconstruction of lateral wall and femoral moment in the treatment of Evans Jensen type V intertrochanteric fracture

To investigate the clinical effect of proximal femoral nail anti rotation (PFNA) and titanium plate in the treatment of Evans Jensen type V intertrochanteric fractures. From October 2013 to March 2016, 30 patients with Evans Jensen type V intertrochanteric fractures were analyzed. According to the operation methods, they were divided into two groups:16 cases of closed reduction and PFNA internal fixation;14 cases of small incision incision reconstruction of titanium plate reconstruction of femoral moment and lateral wall PFNA internal fixation. The operation (blood loss, operation duration), postoperative rehabilitation (postoperative ambulation time, bone healing time), operation related complications (internal fixation fracture, withdrawal, spiral blade cutting out) were observed and compared between the two groups. Harris score of hip joint function was performed 12 months after operation, and the loss degree of cervical trunk angle was observed and compared. All the 30 patients were followed up for 12 to 18 months. The blood loss and operation duration of open reduction group were significantly greater than those of closed reduction group (P<0.05). The postoperative ambulation time, bone healing time, operation related complications, Harris score of hip joint function and loss of cervical trunk angle in the open reduction group were better than those in the closed reduction group(P<0.05). Evans Jensen was treated with PFNA intramedullary fixation through reduction and fixation of femoral moment and lateral wall with reconstruction titanium plate Vtype intertrochanteric fracture can restore the support of femoral moment and lateral wall to femoral head and neck, improve the stability of fracture end and internal fixation after operation, and reduce the risk of fracture end displacement, internal fixation loosening, cutting out and even fracture after treatment with PFNA alone. To shorten the bed time of elderly patients and reduce the operation related complications, it provides a new idea and method for the treatment of Evans Jensen type V intertrochanteric fracture.