A simple and flexible concept for computer-navigated surgery of the mandible

Abstract

Computer navigation is a common tool in the daily routine of craniomaxillofacial surgery, particularly for the mid-face region, but experience in mandible application is
still limited. Materials and methods Three cases are presented with navigation of the mandible: two cases of
removal of a wisdom tooth fragment and one case of resection of an ameloblastoma. Results The described method is simple and time-saving. In all three patients the
surgical technique was easy to perform. No typical complications followed, like damage of the lingual nerve or a hematoma of the mouth floor, which can appear
when the surgeon intensely looks for a tooth fragment.
Conclusions
Computer navigation of the mandible is a promising tool, in particular for
removal of foreign bodies, tooth fragments, and cystic or tumor lesion with clear
margins. Advantages are 3D presentation of the lesion, evaluation of nerve location,
and possible preoperative evaluation of graft size. Further applications could be
orthognathic surgery, including distraction planning, bony tumor surgery, cyst
removal, and planning for bony reconstructions.