Fem Sensitivity Analyses on the Stress Levels in a Human Mandible with a Varying ATM Modelling Complexity

A Mandible with the Temporomandibular Joint-A New FEM Model Dedicated to Strength and Fatigue Calculations of Bonding Elements Used in Fracture and Defect Surgery

The aim of the study was to develop a new FEM (finite element method) model of a mandible with the temporal joint, which can be used in the numerical verification of the work of bonding elements used in surgical operations of patients with mandibular fractures or defects. Most of such types of numerical models are dedicated to a specific case. The authors engaged themselves in building a model that can be relatively easily adapted to various types of tasks, allowing to assess stiffness, strength and durability of the bonded fragments, taking into account operational loads and fatigue limit that vary in time. The source of data constituting the basis for the construction of the model were DICOM (digital imaging and communications in medicine) files from medical imaging using computed tomography. On their basis, using the 3D Slicer program and algorithms based on the Hounsfield scale, a 3D model was created in the STL (standard triangle language) format. A CAD (computer-aided design) model was created using VRMesh and SolidWorks. An FEM model was built using HyperWorks and Abaqus/CAE. Abaqus solver was used for FEM analyses. A model meeting the adopted assumptions was built. The verification was conducted by analyzing the influence of the simplifications of the temporomandibular joint in the assessment of mandibular strain. The work of an undamaged mandible and the work of the bonded fracture of the mandible were simulated.

Reconstruction of mandible using a computer-designed 3D-printed patient-specific titanium implant: a case report

Reconstruction of mandibular defects after trauma or tumor resection is one of the most challenging problems facing maxillofacial surgeons. Historically, various autografts and alloplastic materials have been used in the reconstruction of these types of defects. The use of individualized designed biomaterials has opened new possibilities in reconstructive surgery, and now, it is possible to use the patient's computed tomography (CT) to construct patient-specific implants (PSIs). A case of a large mandibular tumor resection and reconstruction of the defect using a customized 3D-printed titanium implant is described. The treatment had excellent postoperative esthetic and functional results without complications. CONCLUSION: Because titanium implants are customizable, easily workable especially with help of 3D virtual planning techniques, bioinert, and nonporous, they represent an ideal alloplastic material for mandibular reconstruction.