Use of modified 3D digital surgical guides in the treatment of complex mandibular fractures

Summary Purpose The objective of this study was to evaluate the use of 3D modified digital surgical guide plates combined with preformed titanium plates in the treatment of complex mandibular fractures. Materials and methods Patients with complex mandibular fractures were randomized into three groups. Group A was treated with a combination of 3D modified digital surgical guide plates and preformed titanium plates, Group B was treated with preformed titanium plates only, and Group C was treated conventionally. The key design point of the guide plates is the “slot” structure, which is crucial for accurately locating the preformed titanium plate. Clinical outcomes, including facial symmetry, surgical accuracy, and maximum deviation were quantitatively assessed postoperatively. Results Twenty-two patients were recruited for this study, eight for Group A, six for Group B, and eight for Group C. Group A exhibited better postoperative clinical outcomes. Among three groups, significant improvements were found in Group A for facial symmetry (S1 [0.74 ± 0.17 mm, P Conclusions 3D printed modified digital surgical guide plates can effectively improve treatment outcomes in complex mandibular fractures.