Abstract
OBJECTIVES: This study aims to establish a standardized, repeatable, and simple digital evaluation method for accurately determining the effect of computer-assisted free fibula mandibular reconstruction. METHODS: A total of 20 mandibular defect cases caused by tumors were analyzed retrospectively. The coronal, sagittal, and axial mandibular angles were measured and analyzed with Mimics Research 21.0 and 3-matic Research 13.0 software before and after surgery. The effect of computer-assisted free fibula mandibular reconstruction was evaluated. RESULTS: No significant difference was observed in the coronal and axial mandibular angles between the healthy and affected sides before operation (P>0.05). By contrast, a significant difference in sagittal mandibular angle (P<0.05) was noted. No significant difference was found in the coronal, sagittal, and axial mandibular angles between the healthy and affected sides after operation (P>0.05). Conversely, a significant difference was recorded in the absolute value of the coronal, sagittal, and axial mandibular angles between the healthy and affected sides pre-operation and post-operation (P<0.01). Meanwhile, a significant difference was observed in the sagittal mandibular angle between the healthy and affected sides before operation and the axial mandibular angle between the healthy and affected sides after operation in Type Ⅰ defect (P<0.05). Moreover, no significant difference in the 3D mandibular angle was found between the healthy and affected sides before and after operation in other types (P>0.05). Furthermore, no significant difference was recorded in the absolute values of the sagittal and coronal mandibular angles between the healthy and affected sides before and after operation in Type Ⅰ defect (P>0.05). Lastly, a significant difference was found in the absolute values of the 3D mandibular angles between the healthy and affected sides before and after operation in other types (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Computer-assisted free fibula mandibular reconstruction can significantly improve 3D mandibular deformities caused by tumors and effectively restore the accurate symmetry of the mandibular anatomical structure. The evaluation method used in this study can accurately evaluate the effects of mandibular reconstruction and provide guidance to preoperative design.