Sam Brusco, Associate Editor08.09.22
The Netherlands Cancer Institute and the Dutch Mobius 3D Technologies (M3DT), after four years of research, have implanted a titanium lower jaw for the first time in a head and neck cancer patients. The jaw was reconstructed based on the patient’s 3D MRI and CT scans, leading to a successful operation.
Often, lower jaw tumors are treated by removing part of the mandible, which is reconstructed (if possible) with bone from elsewhere in the body. However, these reconstruction methods are complex and need vascular anastomosis, and can cause morbidity at the donor site. If only metal plates are used, they can break through mucosa or skin in about 40% of cases and the screws attached to the plate can loosen.
The new 3D-printed mandible exactly fits the defect, according to the researchers. It has the shape and weight of the original mandible and is stronger than currently used plates.
An improved fastening technique and “mesh structure” on the implant’s inside to retain strength while still feeling light for the patient. Innovative fixation screw orientation ensures the implant stays in place, and a custom-made design helps retain fit and distribute pressure more evenly.
The operation is simpler and shorter than typical methods, and the surgical tools are patient-specific as well.
The 3D lab and head and neck surgeons of the Netherlands Cancer Institute have worked for years on this project together with M3DT. This application is expected to be more widely applicable in 2023/2024. Research is currently underway to further expand these techniques for implants elsewhere in the face and skull.
Often, lower jaw tumors are treated by removing part of the mandible, which is reconstructed (if possible) with bone from elsewhere in the body. However, these reconstruction methods are complex and need vascular anastomosis, and can cause morbidity at the donor site. If only metal plates are used, they can break through mucosa or skin in about 40% of cases and the screws attached to the plate can loosen.
The new 3D-printed mandible exactly fits the defect, according to the researchers. It has the shape and weight of the original mandible and is stronger than currently used plates.
An improved fastening technique and “mesh structure” on the implant’s inside to retain strength while still feeling light for the patient. Innovative fixation screw orientation ensures the implant stays in place, and a custom-made design helps retain fit and distribute pressure more evenly.
The operation is simpler and shorter than typical methods, and the surgical tools are patient-specific as well.
The 3D lab and head and neck surgeons of the Netherlands Cancer Institute have worked for years on this project together with M3DT. This application is expected to be more widely applicable in 2023/2024. Research is currently underway to further expand these techniques for implants elsewhere in the face and skull.