Optimizing Outcomes: Value Analysis of Virtual Surgical Planning in Orthognathic Surgery

Join us as we venture into the exciting world of virtual surgical planning (VSP) for patients undergoing orthognathic surgery. Technological advances such as three-dimensional (3D) imaging, more specifically, the innovations such as the cone bean computed tomography, intraoral scanning and three-dimensional surface capture/photography have given us the ability to create a virtual patient. Using surgical simulation software to plan orthognathic surgical movements on the virtual patient head combined with 3D printing technology allows us to complete the digital workflow. The 3D-printed surgical splints help in transferring the virtual plan to the surgical table. However, as we are aware, for several years prior to the availability of the above-mentioned technological innovations, successful surgical outcomes have been obtained. Also, technological advancements always come with additional costs. Therefore, we decided to conduct a series of studies to evaluate the accuracy of virtual surgical planning (VSP) in patients undergoing Lefort I or segmental Lefort I osteotomy with bilateral sagittal split osteotomy by quantifying the differences between the planned and actual surgical outcomes.

Using the results of our studies and by analyzing other evidence-based studies, we will evaluate the accuracy of VSP outcomes compared to traditional methods, particularly in Lefort I and bilateral sagittal split osteotomies. Through clinical case presentations, we will examine the management of orthognathic patients using VSP, with a focus on the surgery-first technique and also outline the associated biomechanical principles. This course aims to enhance understanding of VSP’s impact on surgical success and patient outcomes.