OBJECTIVETo discuss the application of 3-D skull models and guide plates in treatment of unilateral orbitozygomatic deformity after fracture.

METHODSEach patient underwent CT scan and DICOM data was obtained preoperatively. Two 3-D resin skull models were produced by rapid prototyping technique. The first model was produced based on the patient's original data and the second was the reshaped model by mirroring the unaffected facial side to the traumatic side. The original model was used for measurement of the fracture displacement in three directions and model surgery. On the second model, one 2.0 mm miniplate (Synthes Inc) was bended along the orbital rim as the repositioning guide plate. During the operation, osteotomy and reduction of zygomatic and the periorbital fractures was guided by prepared repositioning guide plate, following by orbital wall reconstruction and bone grafting.

RESULTSFrom March 2007 to February 2009, 7 cases (6 males and 1 female) were treated successfully with no infection or graft extrusion. One week after operation, the patient received CT examination again. The shape and location of zygomatic bone and arch was good. Three cases were followed up for 3 months. Among them, facial symmetry was achieved in 2 cases. Cicatricial contracture and temporal soft tissue atrophy occurred in one case.

CONCLUSIONSReliable therapeutic effect can be achieved by application of rapid prototyping technique and repositioning guide plate in the treatment of complicated posttraumatic orbitozygomatic deformity.