This article discusses the application of computer-aided design and rapid prototyping techniques in polymethylmethacrylate reconstruction of craniofacial bone defects. This method avoids the probability of tissue damage due to exothermic reaction during the polymerization process and provides precise implants that exactly fit the defects.
Methods: A total of 11 patients who have various-sized craniofacial defects underwent polymethylmethacrylate reconstruction. We performed three-dimensional reconstruction and operative design using computer software. According to the design, we determined the shape and size of the implants and made individualized implants for craniofacial bone defects with the rapid prototyping technique.
Results: With the application of computer-aided design and a rapid prototyping technique, we could accurately determine the shape, size, and embedding location. Prefabricating the individual implant models is useful in improving the accuracy of treatment. No cases of infection, seroma, extrusion, or contour irregularity occurred as a complication, and all patients were satisfied with the results. During the follow-up period, ranging from 1 to 6 years, all patients remained satisfied, and no complications were sustained.
Conclusions: In cases of various-sized cranial defects and complex maxillofacial defects that have enough soft tissue coverage and that do not have contact with a third space, prefabricated methyl methacrylate implants can be used safely. Patients will feel more comfortable if the postoperative shape resembles the original appearance, so the proposed algorithm effectively creates a customized implant.