The mandible's horseshoe-shaped anatomy makes the reconstruction of segmental defects a challenging procedure. Conventional reconstruction typically relies on alloplastic plates to bridge bony stumps; however, these require extensive intraoperative bending, often resulting in imperfect adaptation, press-to-contact fixation, and residual stresses that increase the risk of hardware fatigue and fracture. Recent advances in computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) and virtual surgical planning (VSP) have improved precision in maxillofacial reconstruction. Patient-Specific Reconstruction Plates (PSRP), developed from virtual planning and patient-specific anatomical data, offer a bespoke contour adaptation, predictable screw positioning, and elimination of press-fit deformation. This customization improves alignment, mechanical stability, and long-term outcomes.
The study aims to assess the clinical performance and morbidity rate of computer-guided PSRP in the management of mandibular segmental defects. This prospective interventional clinical trial will be conducted on a total of 14 patients with a segmental mandibular defect, recruited from Alexandria University Teaching Hospital. All patients will be reconstructed using a PSRP alloplastic bridging plate, utilizing a preoperative virtual surgical planning and design. Patients will be evaluated clinically for the rate of morbidity and range of mandibular excursions. Furthermore, postoperative radiographic 3D analysis will evaluate the accuracy of the computer-guided procedure.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
NA
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
14
Patient specific reconstruction plate
Faculty of Dentistry, Alexandria University
Alexandria, Alexandria Governorate, Egypt
RECRUITINGPostoperative complications and degree of morbidity
All patients will be assessed immediately post-operative, at 1 and 3 months. Any complication that arises during the clinical follow-up period will be monitored and reported. Complications include prolonged hospital stay, prolonged drug administration, signs of screw or PSRP loosening, PSRP fracture, wound dehiscence or tissue necrosis, Intra/extraoral PSRP exposure, and fistulae.
Time frame: 3 months
Functional Range of Mandibular Excursions
The range of mandibular excursions will be objectively recorded using a caliper measurement during the clinical follow-up periods. The following excursions will be recorded: Intra-Incisal Mouth Opening (I-IMO) Dental Midline Deflection on Opening (DMD-O) Chin Midline Deflection on Opening (CMD-O)
Time frame: 3 months
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