Mandible Reconstruction Assembly Using 3D Modeling for Precision
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Solution Overview
Problem
In jaw replacement surgery, existing methods face challenges in accurately positioning and orienting the reconstructed mandible assembly to preserve the patient's previous jaw articulation and dental arch junction, which is crucial for functional and aesthetic outcomes.
Innovation Solution
A 3-D modeling and manufacturing process is employed to create a reconstruction assembly comprising a fixation implant, dental prosthesis, and fibula flap, using anterior and posterior positioning extensions and implant posts to ensure precise alignment and orientation, followed by cementation and transfer to the patient's mandible.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional surgical methods are used for mandible reconstruction, then the surgical procedure can be performed with standard techniques, but the positioning and orientation accuracy of the reconstructed mandible assembly deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by creating virtual 3-D models and designing the reconstruction assembly components before the actual surgery. The fixation implant, dental prosthesis, and positioning extensions are designed and configured in advance to ensure accurate positioning and orientation during surgery, thereby improving measurement precision while managing device complexity through pre-planning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses copying by creating virtual 3-D models that replicate the patient's actual mandible anatomy. These digital copies allow for precise measurement, planning, and design of the reconstruction assembly, enabling accurate positioning and orientation without requiring the physical model to be present during surgery, thus improving precision while controlling complexity.
2Device complexity
If a simple reconstruction assembly is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to preserve jaw articulation and dental arch junction deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the reconstruction assembly into distinct components: a fixation implant for bone attachment, a dental prosthesis for tooth replacement, and positioning extensions for alignment. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function reliably, preserving jaw articulation and dental arch junction while managing overall device complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses positioning extensions as intermediaries between the dental prosthesis and the fixation implant. These extensions ensure proper alignment and orientation of the dental prosthesis relative to the patient's existing jaw structure, thereby preserving jaw articulation and dental arch junction. The intermediary components enable reliable functional outcomes without requiring an overly complex integrated structure.
3Reliability
If precise positioning components are added to the reconstruction assembly, then jaw articulation preservation is improved, but the ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by utilizing virtual 3-D modeling and computer-aided design to define precise geometric parameters of the reconstruction assembly components. The positioning extensions and fixation implant are designed with specific dimensions, angles, and orientations that ensure accurate jaw articulation preservation. These parameters are determined through digital planning and can be directly manufactured using modern manufacturing techniques, thereby maintaining reliability while improving ease of manufacture through digital precision.
4Measurement precision
If virtual 3-D modeling and custom design are used, then positioning and orientation accuracy is improved, but the manufacturing time and complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical measurement and modeling methods with virtual 3-D modeling and computer-aided design systems. This substitution allows for precise positioning and orientation accuracy to be achieved through digital planning and simulation, which can then be directly transferred to manufacturing processes. The digital workflow reduces the need for iterative physical prototyping and manual adjustments, thereby improving measurement precision while reducing overall manufacturing time through streamlined digital-to-physical fabrication.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for designing and producing a reconstruction assembly for implantation onto a mandible to replace a resected or damaged portion, the method utilizing a virtual and a physical 3-D model of a patient, as well as the reconstruction assembly itself, the reconstruction assembly having a fixation implant, a fibular flap, implant posts and a dental prosthesis with removable positioning extensions.