Biomechanics of a Novel 3D Mandibular Osteotomy Design

Abstract

Elective mandibular surgical osteotomies are commonly used to correct craniofacial discrepancies. Since the modifications proposed by Obwegeser, Dal Pont, and Hunsuck, no effective variations have been proposed to improve the biomechanical results of these mandibular osteotomies. With technological developments and the use of three-dimensional images from CT scans of patients, much has been done to plan and predict outcomes with greater precision and control. To date, 3D imaging and additive manufacturing technologies have not been used to their full potential to create innovative mandibular osteotomies. The use of 3D digital images obtained from CT scans as DICOM files, which were then converted to STL files, proved to be an efficient method of developing an innovative mandibular ramus beveled osteotomy technique. The new mandibular osteotomy is designed to reduce the likelihood of vasculo-nervous damage to the mandible, reduce the time and ease of surgery, and reduce post-operative complications. The proposed osteotomy does not affect traditional osteotomies. Anatomical structures such as the inferior alveolar nerve and intraoral surgical access were preserved and maintained, respectively. The results obtained from the digital images were validated on an additively manufactured 3D synthetic bone model.