[Clinical application of virtual surgery combined with guide plate in reduction and fixation of condylar neck fracture in 7 patients].

PURPOSE: To explore the value of virtual surgery and 3D printing model combined with guide plate in treatment of mandibular condylar neck fracture.

METHODS

Seven patients with mandibular condylar neck fracture were scanned by CT for original data. The data were exported in DICOM format. A three-dimensional model was reconstructed using software, the fracture was reduced by virtual surgery, and the 3D model was printed by a 3D printer. A prebent titanium plate was used to fabricate the guide plate, which was used for reduction and fixation of the fracture block during surgery.

RESULTS

All the postoperative incisions revealed no signs of infection, the wounds were hidden and beautiful. The implanted titanium plates were highly compatible with the reduced fracture segments. The patients were followed up for 6 months after surgery, the condylar fracture healed well and there was no obvious displacement. The patient developed no mandibular deviation with a stable occlusion, and no occlusal pain was reported. No obvious temporomandibular joint disorder was present.

CONCLUSIONS

Virtual surgery and 3D printing model combined with guide plate can ensure an accurate reduction of condylar neck fracture and simplify the operation process, which can be used as an accurate, efficient and predictable auxiliary method.