To what extent can mastication functionality be restored following mandibular reconstruction surgery? A computer modeling approach.

Statement Of Problem: Advanced cases of head and neck cancer involving the mandible often require surgical removal of diseased sections and subsequent replacement with donor bone. During the procedure, the surgeon must make decisions regarding which bones or tissues to resect. This requires balancing tradeoffs related to issues such as surgical access and post-operative function; however, the latter is often difficult to predict, especially given that long-term functionality also depends on the impact of post-operative rehabilitation programs.

Purpose: To assist in surgical decision-making, we present an approach for estimating the effects of reconstruction on key aspects of post-operative mandible function.

Material And Methods: We develop dynamic biomechanical models of the reconstructed mandible considering different defect types and validate them using literature data. We use these models to estimate the degree of functionality that might be achieved following post-operative rehabilitation.

Results: We find significant potential for restoring mandibular functionality, even in cases involving large defects. This entails an average trajectory error below 2 mm, bite force comparable to a healthy individual, improved condyle mobility, and a muscle activation change capped at a maximum of 20%.

Conclusion: These results suggest significant potential for adaptability in the masticatory system and improved post-operative rehabilitation, leading to greater restoration of jaw function.