Our Summary

This research paper discusses a new method for performing complex craniofacial surgeries, such as those needed for severe hypertelorism (a condition where the eyes are too far apart) and skull holes. Usually, these surgeries require two separate procedures: one to resize the patient’s skull, and another to implant a custom-made, 3D-printed prosthesis. Between these procedures, doctors also need to take additional images of the patient’s skull to help design the implant.

Instead, the researchers propose a new method which combines these steps into a single surgery. They use medical imaging and 3D software to create a precise virtual model of the patient’s skull. This allows them to plan the surgery in detail ahead of time, including the design of the final implant. They then use 3D printing to create the actual implant.

The researchers tested this method on a complex case study, and found that it was feasible. It significantly reduced the time and cost of the surgery, and also greatly benefited the patient by reducing the number of surgeries needed. The authors believe this is the first time such a method has been used to treat both osteotomy (bone cutting) and cranium plaque (a type of skull implant) simultaneously.

FAQs

  1. What is the new method proposed for complex craniofacial surgeries?
  2. How does the new method for craniofacial surgeries benefit the patient?
  3. Has this method of combining osteotomy and cranium plaque treatment in a single surgery been used before?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about craniofacial surgery is to make sure to follow all pre-operative and post-operative instructions closely. This may include abstaining from certain medications, following a specific diet, and attending all follow-up appointments. By following these instructions carefully, the patient can help ensure a successful outcome and a smooth recovery process.

Suitable For

Patients who may benefit from craniofacial surgery typically have congenital deformities, traumatic injuries, or tumors affecting the skull, face, or jaws. Some common conditions that may require craniofacial surgery include:

  1. Craniosynostosis: a condition where the bones of the skull fuse together prematurely, leading to an abnormal head shape.
  2. Cleft lip and palate: congenital conditions where there is a gap in the lip and/or palate that can affect both appearance and function.
  3. Craniofacial microsomia: a condition where one side of the face is underdeveloped, leading to asymmetry.
  4. Apert syndrome: a genetic disorder that affects the development of the skull, face, and limbs.
  5. Facial trauma: injuries to the face and skull that require reconstruction.
  6. Maxillofacial tumors: tumors affecting the bones and soft tissues of the face and jaws.

Patients who are recommended for craniofacial surgery often have complex and challenging cases that require a multidisciplinary approach involving surgeons, orthodontists, speech therapists, and other specialists. The goal of craniofacial surgery is to improve the patient’s appearance, function, and quality of life.

Timeline

Before the surgery, the patient would undergo a series of consultations with the craniofacial surgeon to discuss their condition, potential treatment options, and the risks and benefits of surgery. They would also undergo various imaging tests, such as CT scans and MRIs, to assess the extent of their condition and help plan the surgery.

During the surgery, the patient would be placed under general anesthesia and the surgeon would use the virtual model of the patient’s skull to guide the procedure. The surgeon would first perform the necessary osteotomies to reshape the skull, and then would implant the custom-made 3D-printed prosthesis to correct the patient’s craniofacial deformity.

After the surgery, the patient would be closely monitored in the hospital for a period of time to ensure proper healing and to manage any post-operative complications. They would also undergo follow-up appointments with the surgeon to track their progress and make any necessary adjustments to the prosthesis.

Overall, this new method of combining craniofacial surgeries into a single procedure offers a more streamlined and efficient approach to treating complex craniofacial deformities, ultimately benefiting the patient by reducing the number of surgeries needed and improving outcomes.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific craniofacial condition or issue do I have that requires surgery?
  2. What are the benefits of combining skull resizing and implant placement into one surgery?
  3. How will medical imaging and 3D software be used to plan my surgery?
  4. What are the potential risks or complications associated with this new surgical method?
  5. How long is the recovery process expected to be following this combined surgery?
  6. Will I still need additional surgeries or procedures in the future after undergoing this combined surgery?
  7. How many cases have you treated using this new method, and what have the outcomes been?
  8. What is the success rate of this new method compared to traditional craniofacial surgery approaches?
  9. What post-operative care or follow-up appointments will be necessary after the surgery?
  10. Are there any alternative treatment options available for my condition, and how do they compare to this combined surgery method?

Reference

Authors: Volpe Y, Furferi R, Governi L, Uccheddu F, Carfagni M, Mussa F, Scagnet M, Genitori L. Journal: Comput Methods Programs Biomed. 2018 Oct;165:225-233. doi: 10.1016/j.cmpb.2018.09.002. Epub 2018 Sep 5. PMID: 30337077