The Accuracy of a Patient-Specific Three-Dimensional Digital Ostectomy Template for Mandibular Angle Ostectomy.

Abstract

Although three-dimensional (3D)-printed digital ostectomy templates (DOTs) can help surgeons perform mandibular angle ostectomy (MAO) more precisely and safely, the clinical application of such templates is problematic. The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of a novel DOT and improve the precision of MAO. A total of 20 patients with a prominent mandibular angle (PMA) were allocated into 2 groups (10 patients per group). A conventional DOT and a novel DOT were applied to guide MAO in Groups A and B, respectively. The mean time taken for curved osteotomy and the volume of postoperative drainage on 1 side within 24 hours were recorded. The deviations between the simulated and postoperative lower border of the mandible were measured on both sides. All the patients were satisfied with the cosmetic outcomes. Statistical results showed that the mean time taken for curved osteotomy was shorter in Group B than in Group A, and that the volume of postoperative drainage on 1 side within 24 hours was similar between the 2 groups. The deviations at the anterior and posterior parts of the inferior border showed that the accuracy of osteotomy was higher in Group B than in Group A, and that there was no significant difference between the 2 groups in the middle part. The novel DOT is easy to locate and fix tightly, which reduced the operating time and increased the safety and precision of the procedures.