Navigational maxillofacial surgery using virtual models

Ablative tumor surgery and orbital and midface reconstruction, as much as orthognathic surgery, requires detailed planning using computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). These techniques also allow simulation of complex surgeries preoperatively. Proper reconstruction depends on reliable information to choose the correct type of grafts and to predict the outcome. This study evaluates the benefit and indications of computer-assisted surgery in the treatment of 107 patients who underwent craniomaxillofacial surgery. Based on a CT or MRI data set, an optical navigation system was used for preoperative planning, intraoperative navigation, and postoperative control. Surgery could be preoperatively planned and intraoperatively navigated. Preoperatively, it required that soft and hard tissues were measured using the mirrored data set of the unaffected side; the size and location of the graft were chosen virtually. Intraoperatively contours of transplanted tissues were navigated to the preoperatively simulated reconstructive result. Computer-assisted treatment was successfully completed in all 107 cases. Preoperatively outlined safety margins could be exactly controlled during tumor resection. Reconstruction was designed and performed precisely as virtually planned. Image-guided treatment improves preoperative planning by visualizing the individual anatomy, outlining the intended reconstructive outcome, and by objectifying the effect of adjuvant therapy. Intraoperative navigation makes tumor and reconstructive surgery more reliable by showing the safety margins, saving vital structures, and leading the reconstruction to preoperatively planned objectives.