ABSTRACT
Objective To investigate the primary application of 3D printing technique in vascularized fibula resection and grafting for mandible ameloblastoma. Methods The data of 3 cases of unilateral mandibular ameloblastoma were retrospectively collected.The thin slice CT scan of mandible was performed before operation.The scanned original data were imported into mimics 17.0 software for 3D reconstruction.Mirror image of the healthy side mandible was generated by the mirror image tool of the software.Preoperative planning,designing transplantation of vascularized fibula bone,pre-bending and pre-shaping titanium plate,surgical simulation were done by the mirror model.Results All operations were performed successfully,and were in agreement with the preoperative planning.The facial appearance and mandible function were both satisfactory.Conclusion 3D printing technology assisting mandibular ameloblastoma resection and bone graft reconstruction is able to optimize preoperative planning,provide individualized treatment and achieve postoperative satisfaction.