Virtual planning for orthognathic surgery: case report

Abstract

Introduction: The correction of dentofacial deformities depends directly on a good diagnosis, the precision of the surgical planning and the correct execution of the technique. Seeking greater precision, virtual planning for orthognathic surgery has been a tool widely applied in oral and maxillofacial surgery. This work demonstrates, through a case report, the benefits acquired by virtual planning, regarding the quantification of movement, evaluation of the prediction of soft tissues and osteotomies, as well as discusses the accuracy and steps necessary for a correct planning. Case report: Class II facial profile patient, submitted to the virtual planning protocol with acquisition of tomographic images, intraoral scanning and use of digital software for diagnostic evaluation, planning and printing of surgical guides. She was followed up for 3 months after the operation, showing good precision and predictability in the surgical movements performed. Discussion: When performing an accurate clinical evaluation, added up to the acquisition of three-dimensional images, from face tomography, intra-oral scans and the management of CAD/CAM technology, it is possible to achieve greater precision in surgical planning and predictability, as well as accomplish a better diagnosis of transverse deformities. However, one must take into account the need for theoretical[1]practical knowledge for the correct execution of the steps for virtual planning. Final considerations: Given the above, it was possible to observe precision in the result obtained and compatibility between the planned and executed movements. As well, aspects related to each of the steps for the virtual protocol were demonstrated, exposing their particularities and differences in relation to conventional planning.