Our Summary

This research paper looks at how 3D printing technology is being used in orthognathic surgery, which refers to surgical procedures that correct conditions affecting the jaw and face. These advances have allowed for better planning and prediction of surgical outcomes. A variety of tools and guides designed specifically for each patient can now be designed and produced using 3D printing, greatly improving the results of surgery.

The paper reviews the current literature on this topic, covering areas like 3D computer-aided design and manufacturing, rapid prototyping, additive manufacturing, and the use of 3D printed models and custom-made guides. The research involved looking at articles from the past ten years, sourced from Medline, PubMed, ProQuest, and ScienceDirect.

Overall, they found 318 articles, of which 69 specifically addressed the use of 3D printing in orthognathic surgery, and an additional 9 articles were added after being manually searched.

The conclusion is that 3D printing methods in orthognathic surgery have shown to provide better functional and aesthetic results, increase patient satisfaction, and allow for more precise implementation of the treatment plan.

FAQs

  1. How has 3D printing technology improved orthognathic surgery outcomes?
  2. What sources were consulted for this research paper on 3D printing in orthognathic surgery?
  3. What are the key findings from this research on the use of 3D printing in orthognathic surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient considering jaw surgery that utilizing 3D printing technology can greatly improve the planning and outcome of the surgery. Custom-made guides and tools can be designed specifically for each patient, leading to better functional and aesthetic results, increased patient satisfaction, and more precise implementation of the treatment plan. It is important to discuss with your surgeon the use of 3D printing technology in your surgery and how it may benefit you.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for jaw surgery include those with:

  1. Severe malocclusion or misalignment of the jaws
  2. Facial asymmetry
  3. Difficulty with chewing or speaking due to jaw issues
  4. Sleep apnea or other breathing problems related to jaw position
  5. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
  6. Congenital jaw abnormalities
  7. Trauma or injury to the jaw
  8. Severe overbite or underbite

Overall, patients who have functional or aesthetic concerns related to their jaw and face may benefit from orthognathic surgery, especially with the advancements in 3D printing technology that allow for more precise planning and execution of the surgical procedure.

Timeline

Before jaw surgery:

  • Patient consults with a maxillofacial surgeon to discuss treatment options
  • Comprehensive evaluation and examination of the jaw and face
  • Imaging studies such as x-rays, CT scans, and 3D scans are taken to assess the condition
  • Surgeon uses 3D printing technology to create a personalized treatment plan and surgical guides
  • Patient undergoes pre-surgical preparation and receives instructions for post-operative care

After jaw surgery:

  • Surgery is performed using the 3D printed guides and tools to ensure precision and accuracy
  • Patient undergoes a recovery period, which may include pain management and dietary restrictions
  • Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor healing and adjust treatment as needed
  • Patient experiences improved function, aesthetics, and overall satisfaction with the results of the surgery

Overall, the use of 3D printing technology in orthognathic surgery has revolutionized the treatment process, leading to better outcomes and patient experiences.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about jaw surgery using 3D printing technology include:

  1. How will 3D printing technology be used in my orthognathic surgery?
  2. What specific tools or guides will be designed and produced for my surgery using 3D printing?
  3. How will 3D printing improve the planning and prediction of my surgical outcomes?
  4. Can you explain the process of 3D computer-aided design and manufacturing in relation to my surgery?
  5. What are the potential benefits of using 3D printed models and custom-made guides in my surgery?
  6. Are there any risks or limitations associated with using 3D printing technology in orthognathic surgery?
  7. How will 3D printing technology impact the overall success and recovery of my jaw surgery?
  8. Are there any additional costs or considerations I should be aware of related to the use of 3D printing in my surgery?
  9. Can you provide any specific examples or case studies of successful orthognathic surgeries using 3D printing technology?
  10. What post-operative care or follow-up will be necessary after my surgery involving 3D printing?

Reference

Authors: Lin HH, Lonic D, Lo LJ. Journal: J Formos Med Assoc. 2018 Jul;117(7):547-558. doi: 10.1016/j.jfma.2018.01.008. Epub 2018 Feb 3. PMID: 29398097