Computer-assisted surgical planning and simulation for condylar reconstruction in patients with osteochondroma.

We describe the use of computer-assisted three-dimensional surgical planning in condylar reconstruction by vertical ramus osteotomy for patients with osteochondroma, and its clinical effects. Seventeen patients with osteochondroma of the mandibular condyle who were seen from March 2005 to March 2009 were divided into 2 groups treated by condylectomy and condylar reconstruction using vertical sliding osteotomy of the mandibular ramus with and without three-dimensional simulation using Surgicase CMF Materialise software. Clinical examination, radiographs, photographs, and details of operation and outcome were used postoperatively to evaluate the clinical effects of the technique. Satisfactory mouth opening was achieved in all cases. Mean (SD) osteotomy and fixation time, duration of intermaxillary fixation, and degree of postoperative numbness of the lower lip were considerably reduced among patients who had three-dimensional simulation. The combined use of computer-assisted three-dimensional surgical planning and simulation with vertical ramus osteotomy to reconstruct the condyle for patients with osteochondroma after excision of the tumour makes the operation more accurate and more convenient, and avoids damage to vital structures.