OBJECTIVETo exploit computer-aided design and computer-aided manufactured (CAD/CAM) techniques and application in the reconstruction of mandible large-scale defect with vascularized fibular bone graft.

METHODSBefore actually performing surgery, three-dimensional(3D) computed tomography(CT) was performed in 7 patients with mandibular large-scale defects, and 3D CT images were acquired by processing CT data. Then the CT data were transformed into a readable format and transferred to produce facsimile models by means of using rapid prototyping(RP) techniques. When individual mandibular models and enantiomorphous models were produced, evaluation and surgical simulation was performed in model, which included measuring range of mandible lesions, prefabrication of mandibular reconstructive titanium palate, precise position of titanium screws, shaping the free vascularized fibula by mandibular, etc. According to the simulations, the mandible reconstructions were finished in operation.

RESULTCAD/CAM techniques and application can distinctly display the mandibular lesions and ambient relationships, which is very useful for clinical assessment and surgical planning. Particular advantages were the unlimited trials with the imaging method, and the feeling of reality with the model method. The actual operative time was shortened, and surgery results were satisfactory with few complications.

CONCLUSIONCAD/CAM techniques are very helpful for simulation of mandible large-scale defect with complicated anatomical and reconstructive problems. By preoperative simulation of procedures, surgeons can improve or refine treatment planning using this method and improve postoperative results.