Abstract:

BACKGROUND: Plenty of anatomic sites are involved in jaw deformity, which need to be repaired from solid structures. However, the treating outcomes are unsatisfactory due to lack of standardized surgery modes and the distinction of each patient.  
OBJECTIVE: To explore the use of digital simulation skull model for designing and correcting asymmetrical deformity of jaws.
METHODS: For a case with traumatic jaw deformity, CT scan and three-dimensional reconstruction were performed. Then rapid prototyping technique was used to produce the craniofacial skull model of the patient. In order to maintain the occluding relation, lower portion of maxilla and the whole mandible were counterclockwise rotated 5°, parts of sclerotin were removed from left mandible, and the mental region was left moved to the midline. Surgical procedures were simulated on the model and necessary supporting tools were prefabricated according to it, which also guided surgery and improved the accuracy of surgery.
RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The patient was satisfied with normal facial appearance, occlusion plane, and masticatory function after operation. The form of asymmetrical deformity of jaws can be truly reproduced by rapid prototyping and simulating operation process with the aid of digital plastic surgery, which provides strong basis for accurate diagnosis, reasonable surgical plans, and good result.