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Precise anatomical reconstruction of extensive orbital fractures is a challenging procedure for surgeons. Computer-assisted technologies, anatomical preformed implants and the possibility of acquiring 3D images using cone beam computed tomography are considered as the new standards. In this short review these applications are presented.

Purpose To evaluate current trends in maxillofacial trauma, a retrospective review of mandibular fractures at a German university hospital was carried out. Patients and Methods In this retrospective study, records of 444 patients with mandibular fractures between 2000 and 2005 at the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospital of Freiburg, Germany, were reviewed. A total of 444 patients presented with 696 mandibular fractures. Results Three hundred twenty-nine (74%) of the fractures occurred in male and 115 (26%) in female patients (2.9:1). One hundred forty-two fractures (32%) resulted from road traffic accidents, 126 from fights (28%), and 116 from falls (26%). Forty-four fractures were caused by sport accidents (10%) and 16 by pathologic fractures (4%). The mandibular condyle area was the most common fracture site, with 291 fractures (42%), followed by 144 fractures of the symphyseal and parasymphyseal area (21%) and 141 angle fractures (20%). Combined fractures were found in nearly half of the cases. Five hundred seventy-nine (83%) of patients with mandibular fractures were treated by surgical intervention, 117 (17%) of patients conservatively. Regarding the surgical treatment, 561 (65%) miniplates, 247 (29%) locking plates, and 51 (6%) lag screws were used. Complications, such as postoperative infections, abscesses, and osteomyelitis appeared in 66 (9%) cases. Conclusion We concluded that osteosynthesis of mandibular fractures by miniplates and locking plates are both reliable.

Purpose Owing to the risk of facial nerve damage and the creation of visible scars, surgical treatment of condylar mandible fractures using an extraoral approach remains controversial. The transoral endoscopically assisted approach of condylar fractures has been reported to avoid these complications. A prospective, randomized controlled, multicenter trial was performed to quantify the patient benefit after open reduction and internal fixation of condylar mandible fractures using endoscopically assisted treatment compared with surgical treatment without endoscopic assistance. Patients and Methods Patients with dislocated uni-/bilateral condylar neck fractures were randomized to receive either nonendoscopic open reduction and internal fixation using an extraoral (submandibular, preauricular, retromandibular) approach or a transoral endoscopic procedure. The primary functional outcome measure was investigated using the asymmetric Helkimo dysfunction score at 8 to 12 weeks and 1 year after surgery. Results A total of 74 patients were recruited between 2003 and 2006; the nonendoscopic extraoral group included 34 patients and the endoscopically assisted open reduction group included 40 patients. Comparable functional results were noted in both groups without any statistical significance. Endoscope-assisted treatment proved to be more time consuming. For the extraoral group, visible scars were rated by most of these patients as being cosmetically acceptable; however, a greater number of facial nerve injuries were reported. Conclusions The treatment of condylar mandible fractures with a minimal invasive endoscopically assisted technique is reliable and may offer advantages for selected cases, particularly concerning the lower occurrence of facial nerve damage.

Background Three-dimensional reconstruction of the orbital floor is a key procedure in primary or secondary orbital deformity. A new procedure for individually bending and preforming implants preoperatively for the reconstruction of orbital fractures is presented. Methods By using diagnostic computed tomographic scan data, the topography of the orbital floor and wall structures can be recalculated. After mirroring the unaffected side onto the affected side, the defect can be reconstructed virtually. Data of the individual virtual model of the orbital cavity are sent to a template machine that reproduces the surface of the orbital floor and medial walls automatically. A titanium mesh can then be adjusted preoperatively for exact three-dimensional reconstruction. Twelve patients with orbital fractures were treated using individually preformed titanium implants. Results All patients treated with this procedure showed normal eye mobility and function after primary reconstruction. The accuracy of the preformed implants lies in the range of 1 mm. Conclusions This procedure offers an individual anatomical reconstruction of the orbital cavity true to original, especially when the deep orbital cone is affected. Navigation-aided procedures guarantee intraoperatively an exact placement of the preformed mesh even for precise reconstruction of extensive orbital defects.

The purpose of this investigation is to present the results using preoperatively-formed titanium mesh implants for a true-to-original primary repair of extensive orbital floor and medial wall fractures. Individually preformed implants were used to repair extensive orbital floor injuries in 19 patients at the University Hospital, Freiburg. The form of the orbital floor and walls was analysed by preoperative diagnostic CT scan data. The form of the virtual reconstructed orbit was transformed into a model of the orbital cavity by a template machine. Postoperative imaging by or CT scan verified the exact 3D reconstruction of the orbital cavity 'true to original'. None of the patients demonstrated diplopia or enophthalmos postoperatively. Using individually preformed titanium mesh implants, the accuracy of the 3D orbital reconstruction was within a range of 1mm. The reconstruction using preformed implants proved to be less time consuming, more precise and less invasive, compared to 'free hand' efforts, for the repair of orbital injuries using titanium mesh and calvarial grafts.

Purpose This cadaver study evaluates the use of pre-bent 3-dimensional titanium mesh implants for orbital floor and medial wall reconstruction. Design Nonrandomized comparative study. Participants Eight human cadaveric heads (n = 16 orbits). Methods Transcutaneous incisions were used to expose both orbital floors in each cadaveric head. Unilateral orbital floor and medial wall fractures were generated in each specimen. The contralateral orbit remained uninjured. The fractures then were repaired with pre-bent titanium mesh fan plates molded from aluminum templates presenting different sizes. The templates were generated from topographical computed tomography (CT) data previously obtained from normal subjects. The accuracy of orbital reconstruction was evaluated with postoperative CT scans. Main Outcome Measures The mean value of the distances between the implant and the bony orbit was evaluated. Results The mean distance between all 16 plates and their respective orbital floors/medial walls was 0.81±0.74 mm. Mean values were 0.68±0.63 mm for the unfractured side and 0.93±0.82 mm for the fractured side. No significant differences were found between orbits when evaluated for side of injury, gender, or size of defect. Conclusion Pre-bent 3-dimensional titanium mesh implants provide accurate reconstruction of orbital floor and medial orbital wall fractures. The mean implant error was

Objectives The aim of this investigation was to develop and test the accuracy of a procedure for fabricating individual preformed titanium meshes for orbital fractures. Study design Preoperative CT datasets from five patients with orbital fractures were used for 3D reconstruction by mirroring the unaffected side onto the defective one, resulting in a new sub-volume. A template for adaptation of the titanium mesh was produced by applying these sub-volumes. Navigation-aided procedures guaranteed the exact placement of the preformed mesh during the operation. Results The accuracy of the reconstructed orbital floor was determined to be approximately 1 mm, which lies within the technical limit of detection. Conclusion These results indicate a further application or navigation-aided reconstruction, which will serve as a pilot project for further investigations. Clustered databases of patients will be used to produce various template sets, reflecting ideal skeletons, according to age, sex, and other patient variables. These could be used for manufacturing preformed osteosynthesis templates.

Ablative tumor surgery and orbital and midface reconstruction, as much as orthognathic surgery, requires detailed planning using computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). These techniques also allow simulation of complex surgeries preoperatively. Proper reconstruction depends on reliable information to choose the correct type of grafts and to predict the outcome. This study evaluates the benefit and indications of computer-assisted surgery in the treatment of 107 patients who underwent craniomaxillofacial surgery. Based on a CT or MRI data set, an optical navigation system was used for preoperative planning, intraoperative navigation, and postoperative control. Surgery could be preoperatively planned and intraoperatively navigated. Preoperatively, it required that soft and hard tissues were measured using the mirrored data set of the unaffected side; the size and location of the graft were chosen virtually. Intraoperatively contours of transplanted tissues were navigated to the preoperatively simulated reconstructive result. Computer-assisted treatment was successfully completed in all 107 cases. Preoperatively outlined safety margins could be exactly controlled during tumor resection. Reconstruction was designed and performed precisely as virtually planned. Image-guided treatment improves preoperative planning by visualizing the individual anatomy, outlining the intended reconstructive outcome, and by objectifying the effect of adjuvant therapy. Intraoperative navigation makes tumor and reconstructive surgery more reliable by showing the safety margins, saving vital structures, and leading the reconstruction to preoperatively planned objectives.

Background From April of 1998 to May of 2003, the minimally invasive transoral approach for endoscopically assisted reduction and osteosynthesis of 62 displaced condylar mandible fractures was performed in 58 patients. Methods By means of limited transoral incision, the endoscopically assisted reduction and fixation of condylar fractures was performed using 30- and 45-degree angled endoscopes. Twenty-five fractures were condylar and 37 were subcondylar. The condylar neck of the proximal fragment was displaced medially in 17 fractures and laterally in 45 fractures. Four patients presented bilateral condylar mandible fractures. Using angled endoscopes, good visibility of the fracture site was obtained, which allowed for precise anatomical reduction in all patients. An angulated drill and screwdriver facilitated miniplate fixation by means of the transoral approach. The mean operating time was measured in the last 30 consecutive cases: 1 hour 5 minutes. Results Postoperatively, all patients showed quick recovery to preinjury occlusion. Normal temporomandibular joint function was noted 6 months after surgery in all patients. Conclusions The transoral endoscopically assisted treatment using an angulated drill and screwdriver is the method of choice for surgical management of displaced condylar fractures, even in fractures with medial override. Facial nerve injury and visible scars are avoided by using the transoral approach.

BACKGROUND Orbital reconstruction after tumor or trauma makes high demands on the surgeon when restoring the optic axis and cosmetic features. Computer-assisted preoperative planning surgery (CAPP) and computer-assisted surgery (CAS) allow calculation of the form of the orbital cavity to be reconstructed preoperatively as well as the process of its realization intraoperatively. METHODS We developed new planning software methods for this surgical procedure. For validation the deviation of accuracy was assessed between the virtual and the real model in eight patients with surgical reconstruction of the orbit. RESULTS The check of accuracy of the reconstructions compared to the planning of the surgery by fusion of preoperative and postoperative data resulted in a mean deviation of 1.74 mm. The volumetric measurements presented a mean deviation of 0.2 cm(3) with an accuracy of >99%. The accuracy of linear measurements with the techniques of image fusion of the "feature-based" method was 0.38 mm and thus close to the technical threshold of effective data accuracy of 0.35 mm. The enophthalmus could be assessed more objectively with this method compared to using the Hertel index. CONCLUSIONS CAPP and CAS are helpful in reconstructive orbital surgery to verify the position of the optic axis and the cosmetic result intraoperatively.

This study assessed swallowing function after tumour resection and reconstruction utilizing free vascularized flap closures in patients with oral cancer. Swallowing function was evaluated postoperatively in 23 patients (21 men and 2 women) who had undergone reconstruction with either a lateral upper arm free flap (LUFF, n=16) or a radial forearm free flap (RFFF, n=7). Videofluoroscopy was used to assess tongue mobility and abnormalities of swallowing function. All patients who underwent reconstruction with LUFF or RFFF free flaps had decreased tongue mobility, except for the tip of the tongue. Patients who underwent anterior or posterior resection had greater decreases in tongue mobility than those who underwent medial resection. Swallowing impairment was similar in patients with LUFFs and those with RFFFs. Anterior resection of the oral cavity had a significant negative effect on swallowing function. Silent aspiration occurred in five patients. In conclusion the resection site affected swallowing function, but the type of flap did not, in patients with oral carcinoma, who underwent tumour resection with reconstruction

The use of endoscopically assisted techniques allows limited incisions for the open reduction of condylar process fractures. Intraoperative control after fracture reduction in areas of limited exposure and visibility is possible. In addition, the risk of facial nerve damage and extensive visible scars can be reduced by using minimally invasive endoscopic techniques. Although the use of endoscopically associated techniques in maxillofacial surgery offers many options and advantages, indications for open treatment of maxillofacial trauma have not changed. The repair of severely dislocated and comminuted fractures of the facial skeleton and major reconstruction of craniomaxillofacial structures still require extended exposure with traditional intraoral and extraoral approaches.

Purpose: The results of endoscopic-assisted transoral approach for open reduction and miniplate fixation of condylar mandible fractures were evaluated 18 months after surgery. Patients and Methods: The transoral endoscopic-assisted treatment of condylar fractures was performed in 8 consecutive patients from April 1998 to December 1999 at the University Hospital Freiburg. Four of 8 condylar fractures were dislocated, and 6 of the 8 patients had additional mandibular fractures. Results: Anatomic reduction was achieved in all patients without facial nerve damage. There were no signs of bony resorption and good temporomandibular joint function 18 months after surgery. In 4 patients, the transoral management of condylar fractures was facilitated by angulated drills and screw drivers. Transbuccal stab incisions were not needed in these 4 patients. In all 8 patients, visible scars were avoided. Conclusions: The endoscopic-assisted transoral approach proved to be a reliable surgical method for condylar fractures when dislocation with lateral override was present. © 2003 American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons J Oral Maxillofac Surg 61:49-54, 2003

Atherosclerosis, a progressive inflammatory disease, may lead to stroke, coronary artery disease, or peripheral artery disease. The prevalence of atherosclerosis associated with morbidity and mortality is very high in industrialized countries. This report describes the case of a 49-year-old male patient whose panoramic radiograph taken as part of a dental examination showed calcification in the branches of the external carotid artery. The right facial artery and left maxillary, facial, and lingual arteries were also calcified. The patient had a history of thrombosis in the right axillary and brachial veins with extension to half of the brachiocephalic trunk. In addition, selective lesions were found in the aorta and mitral valve. The patient's medical history also included hypertriglyceridemia, essential arterial hypertonia, terminal renal insufficiency, renal anemia, neurogen disturbance micturition, secondary hyperparathyroidism, hyperuricemia, lymphatic edema, polyneuropathy, tachyarrhythmia absoluta, and erysipelas. The case presented reports on the possibility of detecting signs of atherosclerosis in arteries of the maxillofacial region by use of panoramic radiography.

Hintergrund. Fur das postoperativeManagement nach mikrovaskularem Gewebetransfer ist das fruhzeitigeErkennen vaskularer Komplikationen entscheidend. Die klinische Beurteilungmikrovaskularer Knochentransplantate ist schwierig, wenn keine Hautinselvorhanden ist.

Introduction: Afferent disorders of the visual system are a potential consequence following orbital trauma. The aim of this study was to investigate the tolerance of neurons in the retinal ganglion cell layer to acute expanding retrobulbar lesions. Material and methods: In 42 male albino rats, intraorbital haemorrhage was simulated by transconjunctival insertion of a retrobulbar micro-balloon (filling volume 0.2–0.5 ml, duration of lesion 60 or 90 min). Neurodegeneration in the retinal ganglion cell layer was investigated by measuring the mean total neuron number and the mean neuron size. Results: Increased retrobulbar volumes of 0.3 ml for 60 min led to a decrease in a number of neurons by 14.5% and in size of the neurons by 1.7%. Prolongation of the trauma to 90 min resulted in a decrease in number of neurons by 48.3% and in reduction of size of neurons by 22.1%. In contrast, a retrobulbar filling volume of 0.5 ml for 60 min resulted in a decrease in number of neurons by 11.4% and in size of neurons by 6.7%. Conclusion: The duration of a retrobulbar lesion leading to subsequent retinal ischaemia seems to be more important for neuron survival than the exerted pressure (once it is greater than a critical point for producing retinal ischaemia). The results strengthen the need for emergency treatment in cases of retrobulbar haemorrhage. Copyright 2002 European Association for Cranio-Maxillofacial Surgery. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.

Aim of the study Using limited extraoral and transoral incisions for an endoscopically assisted open reduction of condylar mandible fractures, the risk of facial nerve damage and extensive visible scars can be reduced. Patients and methods The endoscopically assisted treatment of 17 consecutive patients with fractures of the condyle was performed from April 1998 to December 1999. Of the 17 patients, 14 had additional mandibular fractures, and 11 of the condylar fractures were dislocated. Of the 17 patients, 9 were treated by submandibular and 8 by transoral approach. Adequate anatomic reduction was achieved by the submandibular and transoral approaches using an endoscopically assisted technique. Approaches In four patients angulated drills and screwdrivers facilitated the transoral treatment of condylar fractures. Transbuccal stab incisions and the use of trocars were not needed in these four patients. The transoral approach proved to be a reliable surgical approach for fractures of the mandibular condyle even when dislocation with lateral override was present. The extraoral approach was used for severely dislocated fractures such as fractures with medial override or comminution.

The effects of immunosuppression with cyclosporin A and prednisolone regimens for allogenous iliac crest bone grafts used for mandibular reconstruction were investigated in 40 miniature pigs, for periods of 2, 4 and 16 weeks. Autogenous and allogenous bone grafts without immunosuppression served as controls. Specimens were evaluated by routine histology, direct magnified radiography and fluorescence microradiography. Four out of five autogenous transplants showed a preserved vascular architecture and bony union. None of the allogenous transplants without immunosuppression survived. Primary bone healing of the allografts was noted after short-term immunosuppression. However, occlusion of the nutrient vessels was noted ten days postoperatively. The allografts were not rejected after cessation of the immunosuppressive therapy within an observation period of 4-12 weeks. Revascularization of all areas of the allografts and creeping substitution of the transplanted bone were noted after seven weeks. Infection of the allografts, with failure of bony union, was noted in nine animals, but primary healing of allografts with short-term immunosuppression was demonstrated.

Organ abscesses are a rare and life-threatening complication mostly of hematogenously disseminated infections. We report a case of brain and liver abscesses. Identification of the lesions was made by contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), respectively. An oral examination comprised an oral focus of infection. Streptococcus intermedius was isolated from oral smear, liver and ventricular drainage, and blood sample. After the commencement of antibiotic therapy, drainage of abscesses and oral rehabilitation, complete recovery was noted.

Background A prevalent modality to increase the amount of available bone prior to implantation is grafting of the maxillary sinus. Multiple factors such as the surgical technique, moment of implant placement as well as grafting materials and membranes are known to affect implant survival. However, the role of different factor combinations and associated reciprocal effects remain unclear. Conventional statistical methods do not consider inconsistency of study designs and do not take covariables into account. Hence, a systematic research and meta-analysis was conducted to investigate the influence of various treatment modalities on implant survival in the grafted maxillary sinus. Materials and Methods A meta-analysis was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines. Articles published from 1980 through January 2013 were electronically and manually searched in MEDLINE (Ovid), the Cochrane Register of Controlled Trials, the Database of Abstracts of Effects, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Clinical reports on single intervention sinus augmentation with root-form implants, a minimum of 10 patients and 6 months of loading were eligible for inclusion if implant survival was stated or calculable. Results were calculated by non-parametric univariate Kaplan-Meier analysis and Bayesian multivariate interval-censored Cox regression. Results A total of 122 publications on 16268 endosseous implants placed in grafted maxillary sinus were included. The treatment parameters surgical approach, grafting material and implant type showed no selective preference. However, application of membranes showed a significantly reduced hazard-ratio, independent of other co-factors. Conclusions The use of membranes is the most significant factor to achieve long-term implant survival in sinus augmentation procedures. More data exceeding 3 years follow-up are needed to address prospective confounding and improve clinical evidence.

Gorham disease is a very rare condition associated with spontaneous destruction and resorption of 1 or more bones anywhere in the body. Many authors have suggested and/or implicated trauma as the initiating factor in the majority of the reported cases. It can affect almost all bones, and a combination of bones has been reported. In the maxillofacial skeleton, the first facial case was reported by Romer in 1928. Until now, only a few cases of Gorham disease affecting the maxillofacial bones, including this case report, have been reported. We present a brief review of the pathogenesis and treatment modalities of the disease and report a very rare clinical picture of the disease affecting a young and otherwise healthy patient with massive osteolysis of the mandibular bone and extensive involvement of the mouth floor and skin of the chin, which to our knowledge, is the only case report with skin manifestation affecting the maxillofacial region. Such skin manifestations play an important role for the diagnosis and add a clue for management of such condition.

Summary Purpose The use of a 2.0-mm locking plate system was evaluated in mandibular surgery. Patients and methods 53 patients (42 male, 11 female) with a total of 56 mandibular fractures were treated with a 2.0-mm mini-locking-plate system and retrospectively examined. Gender, age, cause of fracture, surgical access, classification of fractures, osteosynthesis, postsurgical findings and complications were evaluated. Results Assault in male patients (mean age 31) was the most common aetiological factor. Fractures in women (mean age 43 years) mostly occurred due to falls. Mandibular angle fractures were the most common and this anatomical site also presented the highest complication rate. Only 6% of patients had minor occlusal disturbance postoperatively, and minor complications (infections and dehiscence) occurred in 14% of patients in this study. Major complications only occurred in one patient included in the study (1.9%). Risk factors for the development of complications in this series were a history of alcohol or tobacco use, mandibular angle fractures, associated facial fractures, presurgical occlusal disturbance and concomitant dental infections. Surgical access to the fracture and the interval from injury to surgery was not associated with the development of complications. Conclusions The use of a 2.0-mm locking plate system with its advantages of improved handling characteristics, increased stability, shorter surgical time and the preservation of bony perfusion is a viable alternative to conventional miniplates in the management of mandibular fractures.

Three-dimensional reconstruction of the orbital floor is the key procedure for a primary or secondary orbital deformity. After the unaffected side is mirrored onto the affected side using the patient's computer-tomography database, the defect can be reconstructed virtually. A measurement procedure that calculates the virtually reconstructed orbital surface data is available. These data are sent to a template machine that reproduces the physical surface. A flat titanium mesh can then be adjusted preoperatively to the spatial configuration of the anatomical structures. This procedure offers optimal anatomical reconstruction of the orbital floor, especially when the deep orbital cone is affected.

Introduction Intraosseous malformations are rarely reported in the maxillofacial area. Because of bone growing processes, it is still a challenge to find the appropriate way to treat this disorder. The gold standard treatment for arteriovenous malformation is an endovascular embolization, combined with surgery. Methods The case of a 14-year-old boy with arteriovenous malformation of the mandible was followed during a period of 8 years. Results Several embolizations and surgical interventions were required, culminating in bone reconstruction with a fibula graft to achieve normal mandibular form and function. There was no recurrence of the malformation during the follow-up period. Conclusions To obtain stable results in the case of intraosseous arteriovenous malformations of the mandible, a combination of embolization and surgery is recommended. Superselective embolization is possible in an emergency case.

Hamorrhagische Diathesen konnen ein hohes Risiko fur die zahnarztliche Chirurgie darstellen. Im Klinikalltag finden sich alle Varianten der plasmatischen, vaskularen, thrombozytaren Formen bis hin zu den Hypertonie-bedingten Blutungsubeln. Zumeist werden diese Patienten bereits primar als Risikopatienten in die Klinikbehandlung uberwiesen. Damit steht ein breites Spektrum diagnostischer und therapeutisch-interdisziplinarer Moglichkeiten zur Verfugung, so das in der Regel eine klare Einstufung des Schweregrads der Blutungsneigung im Vorfeld moglich ist und entsprechende Behandlungsstrategien im Sinn eines Stufenplans festgelegt werden konnen. Vorgestellt wird eine therapierefraktare, idiopathische thrombozytopenische Purpura (ITP) bei einer 58jahrigen Patientin mit desolaten Gebisverhaltnissen – einschlieslich multipler periapikaler Parodontitiden – welche nicht zahnarztlich-chirurgisch behandelbar waren. Die Vorgeschichte umfaste eine Vielzahl hamatologischer Therapiekonzepte (inklusive Splenektomie), die ausnahmslos fehlschlugen. Unter immunsuppressiver und zytostatischer medikamentoser Therapie und nach Substitution mit Thrombozytenkonzentraten oder Immunglobulinen war kein Anstieg der Blutplattchen zu erreichen. Bei der Patientin bestand eine absolute Kontraindikation fur jeglichen zahnarztlich-chirurgischen Eingriff, da eine Behandlung der Grunderkrankung nicht moglich ist. Anhand dieses Fallbeispiels soll verdeutlicht werden, das nach wie vor unbeherrschbare hamorrhagische Diathesen existieren, die dem behandelnden Zahnarzt und Chirurgen bekannt sein sollten, um deletare therapeutische Fehlentscheidungen zu verhindern.

The aim of this study was to compare a combination of a locking system with self-tapping (ST-L) or self-drilling-tapping (SDT-L) screws with a combination of conventional miniplates with self-tapping (ST) and self-forming (SF) screws. A standardized osteotomy and osteosynthesis with one of the above mentioned systems was performed in 24 sheep. Callus formation was measured with the help of CT scans assisted by a navigation system. Specimens of each osteotomy gap were taken and examined histologically. The best results were observed when self-tapping screws and the Mini-Locking-System (ST-L) were applied. The slowest healing was seen in animals treated with miniplates and SF screws. After 8 weeks an increase in bone formation could be observed in the ST, SF, SDT-L systems. The results after 8 weeks were comparable with those achieved by the ST-L system after 4 weeks. The improved stability of the osteosynthesis with the ST-L system resulted in early ossification of the osteotomy gap and the smallest amount of callus formation.

Summary Purpose Today plate and screw osteosynthesis of mandibular fractures is a standard procedure in routine clinical practice. In this review, the breakthroughs and drawbacks of the development of this important aspect of maxillofacial surgery are followed-up. Methods Medline search of relevant English and German literature. Results In 1886, Carl Hansmann was the first who applied steel screws and plates. Until today the material, the types of plates and applications have been continually improved. Over the last two decades miniplate osteosynthesis has induced a revolution in mandibular fracture treatment. The modern systems provide better handling, higher stability and less pressure on the bone. Conclusion Modern miniplates have great advantages, like the intra-oral approach and the easy adaptability. In addition, it is no longer necessary to expose bone as extensively.

The removal of sphenoid bone parts was performed by the admitting neurosurgeons on a patient who presented an optic nerve compression syndrome. Beside the orbital trauma, an extensive midfacial trauma was sustained with dislocated multifiactures of the zygomatic complex. In a secondary procedure, the orbital cavity was reconstructed successfully using 3 different methods of computer-assisted surgery. First, the reconstruction of the zygomatic complex was controlled intraoperatively by a virtual model obtained by mirroring the unaffected side to the affected side. Second, extracorporeal bone parts were virtually preoperatively relocated and orientated. The reconstruction of the orbital cavity by the insertion of these bony fragments was performed intraoperatively as planned after the zygomatic complex reconstruction. Third, the virtual reconstruction of the orbital floor was performed using preoperatively individually bent and preformed orbital titanium mesh. Combinations of these methods demonstrate the practical and high value of computer-assisted surgery in complex reconstructive craniofacial surgery.

We present the outcome of transconjunctival osteosyntheis with a microplate of orbital floor fractures when there is nly a single fragment. Four patients with dislocated orbital oor fractures and diplopia were treated by osteosynthesis f the fractures between January 2004 and February 2005. ll four patients had double vision particularly on extreme ownward and upward gaze. The type and location of fracture as established by preoperative computed tomography. Two patients were operated on immediately after the njury and two patients after 7–10 days because of extenive periorbital swelling on admission. Intraoperatively we ecided to use osteosynthesis of the fractures only when we ound a single displaced fragment larger than 1.5 cm2. For extensive fractures with multiple fragments or defects e reconstructed the orbital floor and retrobulbar bulge with itanium mesh. The aim of osteosynthesis was anatomical eduction after removal of displaced orbital soft tissues and ony fragments from the maxillary sinus. We exposed the rbital floor by a transconjunctival approach without cantholsis and located the infraorbital nerve before osteosynthesis o protect it. The orbital fragment was fixed in the anterior aspect of he orbital floor using 1.0 and 1.3 mm microplates (Synthes, aoli, USA). It is difficult to fix screws in the posterior or entral part of the orbital floor because of angulation of the rill and unreliable anchorage of screws in thin bone. The ragment of the orbital floor was reduced and supported from nderneath during drilling (at high speed and low pressure) ith Gilles or nerve hooks. After the plate had been fixed nto the fragment with the first screw the bone was accurately educed. Bending of the plate allowed for precise reconstruc

The aim of this study was to evaluate the topographical anatomy of the human orbital floor for the production of prefabricated implants on the basis of computer tomography data. A database of 279 CT scans of Caucasian patients without traumatic deformation of the midface was analysed. 3D-image segmentation of the midfacial skeleton was performed using a computer-assisted protocol. A virtual plane (50×50mm 2 ) was constructed using defined landmarks above the orbital floor. An automated procedure was used to measure the distance between the orbital floor and the constructed plane at 400 distinct points. A mathematical algorithm was used to analyse the data, and to calculate a map of the orbital floor. Statistical analysis of the data revealed that orbital floor topography could be classified as distinct clusters. There were 12 variations of orbital floor anatomy: three unique patterns of the orbital floor for the right orbit and three corresponding patterns for the left side, all of which varied between the sexes. The 12 patterns were constructed with a statistical confidence interval of 1.36±0.6mm.

Ablative tumor surgery, orbital and mid face reconstruction as much as skull base surgery requires detailed planning using CT or MRI. Reconstruction is depending on reliable information to choose correct type of grafts and to predict the outcome. This study evaluates the benefit and the indications of computer assisted surgery in the treatment of cranio-maxillofacial surgery.Based on a CT or MRI data set an optical navigation system was used for preoperative planning, intraoperative navigation and postoperative control. Surgery was preoperatively planned and intraoperatively navigated. Preoperatively required soft and hard tissue was measured using the mirrored data set of the unaffected side; size and location of the graft were chosen virtually. Intraoperatively contours of transplanted tissues were navigated to the preoperatively simulated reconstructive result.Computer assisted treatment was successfully completed in all cases (n=107). Preoperatively outlined safety margins could be exactly controlled during tumor resection. Reconstruction was designed and performed precisely as virtually planned. Image guided treatment improves preoperative planning by visualization of the individual anatomy, intended reconstructive outcome and by objectivation the effect of adjuvant therapy. Intraoperative navigation makes tumor and reconstructive surgery more reliable by showing the safety margins, saving vital structures and leading reconstruction to preplanned objectives.

Cervical necrotizing fasciitis is a fast spreading acute soft tissue inflammation. Death can occur within 12–24h. Early identification and treatment is needed. We report the case of a 75 year old woman with diabetes and high cholesterol, adipositas who developed cervical necrotizing fasciitis of odotongenic origin with massive subcutaneous air collection and first sign of septicaemia. Surgical treatment with debridement and drainage in combination with intravenous broadbased antibiotics as well as daily irrigation of the wound with iodine solution (Betaisodona ® ) and metronidazol (local antibiotic treatment) was performed. The patient recovered completely. Surgical debridement combined with broad-spectrum of antibiotics showed satisfying result for the management of cervical necrotizing fasciitis of dentogenous origin.

This clinical report presents a modified distraction technique to achieve height in the vector of distraction. The success of distraction osteogenesis depends on both biologic and biomechanical factors. The focus in this case is on correcting the direction of distraction; incorrect distraction direction is a frequent complication associated with distraction osteogenesis in the mandible. A 21-year-old man presented with a 10-mm vertical bone defect in the anterior mandible caused by facial trauma. The treatment chosen was distraction osteogenesis. After osteotomizing a bone segment and slitting the lingual periosteum, the bone segment was advanced anteriorly 4 mm and an extra-alveolar distraction device was applied. This approach allows the distraction device to be placed vertically, thus preventing lingual shift. The newly created alveolar ridge fully met prosthodontic requirements for a predictable outcome.