The use of biomodels in maxillofacial surgery is a particularly exciting application of the technology. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons have shown a high level of affinity for biomodelling, perhaps because they routinely use dental casting and the articulated models produced from such castings. The use of biomodels of the mandible and maxilla is a natural extension to the use of these dental castings.

Biomodels are commonly used to improve the diagnostic relevance of CT data and for surgical simulation in a similar fashion to those described in craniofacial surgery. A highlight of the use of biomodels in maxillofacial surgery is the ready acceptance of biomodelling by surgeons. Consequently they have developed many interesting applications in addition to those mentioned in the craniofacial surgery section. These can be described under four headings:

1. Integration of biomodels with dental castings to form articulated jaws.
2. The use of biomodels to shape implants.
3. The use of biomodels to prefabricate templates and splints.
4. The use of biomodels in restorative prosthetics.

Case Studies

• 1: Facial tumour resection and reconstruction with complex titanium implant
• 2: Complex custom facial and mandibular titanium implants

Other Resources

• Publication Abstract: Maxillofacial Biomodelling
• Media Room: Video featuring Maxillofacial BioModelling (Getting Together 2001)
• Media Room: Print articles featuring Maxillofacial BioModelling