Biomaterials in the Reconstruction of the Oral and Maxillofacial Region.

Reconstruction of maxillofacial bones has proven to be complex due to the aesthetic requirements and functional demands of the jaw. Although autogenous bone grafts and a wide range of biomaterials are routinely used for facial bone reconstruction, these methods are associated with a number of drawbacks, including the limited availability of autogenous grafts and the morbidity associated with bone graft harvesting, whilst biomaterials are also linked with a high failure rate. These limitations have inspired the search for innovative techniques for bone bioengineering and the development of more reliable biomaterials.

Evaluation of an interactive multi-media device for delivering information on Le Fort I osteotomy.

This study was carried out on volunteers to evaluate a newly developed interactive software package aimed at informing prospective Le Fort I osteotomy patients regarding the surgical technique and possible complications. The aim of the study was to compare two methods of information delivery; a multi-media tablet device delivering both graphic and verbal information, and an audio device delivering essentially the same information in verbal form only. The null hypothesis was that there would be no difference between the efficiencies of the two methods.