Validation of new soft tissue software in orthognathic surgery planning.

This study tests computer imaging software (SurgiCase-CMF(®), Materialise) that enables surgeons to perform virtual orthognathic surgical planning using a three dimensional (3D) utility that previews the final shape of hard and soft tissues. It includes a soft tissue simulation module that has created images of soft tissues altered through bimaxillary orthognathic surgery to correct facial deformities. Cephalometric radiographs and CT scans were taken of each patient before and after surgery. The surgical planning system consists of four stages: CT data reconstruction; 3D model generation of facial hard and soft tissue; different virtual surgical planning and simulation modes; and various preoperative previews of the soft tissues. Surgical planning and simulation is based on a 3D CT reconstructed bone model and soft tissue image generation is based on physical algorithms. The software rapidly follows clinical options to generate a series of simulations and soft tissue models; to avoid TMJ functional problems, pre-surgical plans were evaluated by an orthodontist. Comparing simulation results with postoperative CT data, the reliability of the soft tissues preview was >91%. SurgiCase(®) software can provide a realistic, accurate forecast of the patient's facial appearance after surgery.