Formulating an Easy, Affordable, and Reproducible Method for Virtual Planning and 3D Reconstruction: A State Institution's Approach for Mandibular Reconstruction

INTRODUCTION Free fibula flap is now regarded as the criterion standard for mandibular reconstruction after oncological resection. However, the results are often confounded due to inappropriate estimate of defect or inappropriate angulation of osteotomy. Three-dimensional (3D) printing and virtual planning can be an effective tool to help in planning osteotomies, therefore simplifying the process. Unfortunately, in developing countries, it is considered to be an expensive and a time-consuming affair, refraining the surgeons to use this technology. We have devised a cheap (less than $35), rapid, and reproducible method for this process that can be performed by residents with the help of the operating surgeon using a freely available software. MATERIALS AND METHODS The study was conducted over a span of 5 years from 2016 to 2020. Forty patients were randomly categorized into 2 groups of 20 each, one of which underwent conventional free fibula flap and the other group consisted of those for whom 3D printing and virtual planning were used. Aesthetic outcome was measured by preoperative and postoperative CT scans with 3D reconstruction. Furthermore, the reconstruction time and total operative time were also measured in both these groups. RESULTS Comparative study clearly demonstrated a significantly better aesthetic outcome in the 3D printing and virtual planning group. The use of this modality significantly reduced the reconstruction time, which was 83.9 minutes in the cases group and 124 minutes in the control group. CONCLUSIONS Three-dimensional printing and virtual planning help to improve the quality of mandibular reconstruction giving a better aesthetic outcome. Besides, it also reduces the operative time and gives us a chance to use prebent implants used for reconstruction. Our methodology is simple, quick, and cost-effective; therefore, we believe that this tool can be incorporated often in free fibula flaps for mandibular reconstruction in developing countries such as ours.