[Application of three-dimensional printing technique in correction of mandibular prognathism].

Objective: To establish a method to prefabricate titanium plate with three-dimensional (3-D) printing technique for correction of mandibular prognathism in sagittal splint ramous osteotomy (SSRO).

Methods: Between January 2012 and May 2013, 12 patients with mandibular prognathism (Angle III malocclusion) were treated. Among them, 9 cases were male and 3 cases were female. Their ages ranged from 19 to 35 years (mean, 25.6 years). With the 3-D facial CT data of these patients, 3-D printer was used to print the models for preoperational simulation. SSRO was performed on 3-D models, and the titanium plates were prefabricated on the models after the distal segments were moved backward and rotated according to occlusal splint. During operations, the proximal segments were fixed to distal segments by the prefabricated titanium plates. 3-D CT scans were taken to examine the temporomandibular joint position changes before operation and at 6 months after operation.

Results: The skull models were manufactured by 3-D printing technique, and the titanium plates were reshaped on the basis of them. Twenty-four prefabricated titanium plates were placed during operations, and they all matched with the bone segments well. Evaluation of 3-D CT scans showed that the temporomandibular joint position had no change. All patients were followed up 7-12 months (mean, 10.6 months). The face type and dental articulation were improved greatly. All cases obtained satisfactory opening function and occlusion.

Conclusion: With the titanium plate fabricated based on 3-D models, surgeons are able to improve or refine surgical planning so that the operation can be performed according to preoperative simulation precisely and the complications, such as dislocation of temporomandibular joint, can be prevented.