Our Summary

This article discusses how personalized implants are currently being used in surgeries related to the mouth and face. These implants are created using 3D printing and computer-aided design and manufacturing technologies. They can be used for a variety of procedures, including reconstructing the face, correcting jaw alignment, and even replacing the entire joint connecting the jaw to the skull.

FAQs

  1. What is the current use of patient-specific implants in oral and maxillofacial surgery?
  2. How does computer-aided design and manufacture contribute to maxillofacial reconstruction?
  3. What is the role of 3D printed plates in custom temporomandibular joint total joint replacement?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about maxillofacial surgery is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully to promote proper healing and minimize complications. This may include recommendations for pain management, diet modifications, oral hygiene practices, and follow-up appointments. Additionally, maintaining good overall health through proper nutrition and avoiding habits like smoking can also aid in the healing process.

Suitable For

Maxillofacial surgery is typically recommended for patients with a variety of conditions, including:

  1. Facial trauma: Patients who have suffered from facial trauma due to accidents, falls, or other injuries may require maxillofacial surgery to repair fractures, lacerations, and other damage to the facial bones and soft tissues.

  2. Jaw deformities: Patients with congenital or acquired jaw deformities, such as underbites, overbites, or asymmetry, may benefit from orthognathic surgery to correct the alignment and function of the jaws.

  3. Temporomandibular joint disorders: Patients with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, such as pain, stiffness, or clicking in the jaw joint, may be recommended for surgery to improve jaw function and alleviate symptoms.

  4. Facial asymmetry: Patients with facial asymmetry due to developmental abnormalities, injuries, or other factors may undergo maxillofacial surgery to achieve a more balanced and harmonious facial appearance.

  5. Tumors and cysts: Patients with benign or malignant tumors, cysts, or other growths in the facial bones or soft tissues may require surgery to remove the abnormal tissue and restore normal facial anatomy.

  6. Sleep apnea: Patients with obstructive sleep apnea or other breathing disorders may undergo maxillofacial surgery, such as mandibular advancement surgery, to open the airway and improve breathing during sleep.

  7. Dental implant placement: Patients who are missing teeth or have severely damaged teeth may require maxillofacial surgery to place dental implants for support of crowns, bridges, or dentures.

Overall, maxillofacial surgery is recommended for patients with a wide range of conditions affecting the facial bones, jaws, and soft tissues, with the goal of improving aesthetics, function, and overall quality of life.

Timeline

Before maxillofacial surgery, a patient typically undergoes a consultation with a maxillofacial surgeon to discuss their specific concerns and goals. This may include a physical examination, medical history review, and imaging studies such as X-rays or CT scans to assess the extent of the facial or jaw deformity.

After the consultation, the surgeon will develop a treatment plan, which may include orthodontic treatment to prepare the teeth for surgery, as well as pre-operative appointments to ensure the patient is medically cleared for surgery.

During the surgery, patient-specific implants, such as 3D printed plates or custom temporomandibular joint total joint replacements, may be used to achieve the desired facial or jaw reconstruction. Computer-aided design and manufacturing technologies are often employed to create precise implants tailored to the individual patient’s anatomy.

After the surgery, the patient will undergo a period of recovery and follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor the healing process and ensure optimal results. Physical therapy or speech therapy may be recommended to aid in the patient’s recovery and rehabilitation.

Overall, maxillofacial surgery can have a significant impact on a patient’s quality of life, improving function, aesthetics, and overall well-being. Patient-specific implants are a valuable tool in achieving successful outcomes in maxillofacial surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific procedure are you recommending for my maxillofacial issue?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with this surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery process expected to be and what can I expect during the recovery period?
  4. Are there any alternative treatment options available for my condition?
  5. Will I need to undergo any additional imaging or tests before the surgery?
  6. How many times have you performed this type of surgery and what is your success rate?
  7. Will I need to follow any specific post-operative care instructions or attend physical therapy sessions?
  8. Are there any specific dietary restrictions or lifestyle changes I should make before or after the surgery?
  9. Will I need to take any medications before or after the surgery, and if so, what are they and what are the potential side effects?
  10. How long can I expect the results of the surgery to last?

Reference

Authors: Huang MF, Alfi D, Alfi J, Huang AT. Journal: Oral Maxillofac Surg Clin North Am. 2019 Nov;31(4):593-600. doi: 10.1016/j.coms.2019.07.010. Epub 2019 Aug 31. PMID: 31481289