Combined application of virtual surgery and 3D printing technology in postoperative reconstruction of head and neck cancers

• Main Authors: Chao Li, Yongchong Cai, Wei Wang, Yan Sun, Guojun Li, Amy L. Dimachkieh, Weidong Tian, Ronghao Sun
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: BMC 2019-11-01
• Series: BMC Surgery
• Subjects: Head and neck cancer; Reconstruction; Digital surgery; Virtual reality; 3 dimensional printing; Computer aided design
• Online Access: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12893-019-0616-3

Abstract Background The complex anatomy of the head and neck creates a formidable challenge for surgical reconstruction. However, good functional reconstruction plays a vital role in the quality of life of patients undergoing head and neck surgery. Precision medical treatment in the field of head and neck surgery can greatly improve the prognosis of patients with head and neck tumors. In order to achieve better shape and function, a variety of modern techniques have been introduced to improve the restoration and reconstruction of head and neck surgical defects. Digital surgical technology has great potential applications in the clinical treatment of head and neck cancer because of its advantages of personalization and accuracy. Case presentation Our department has identified the value of modern digital surgical techniques in the field of head and neck surgery and has explored its utility, including CAD/CAM technology and VR technology. We have achieved good results in the reconstruction of head and neck surgical resection defects. Conclusion In this article, we share five typical cases from the department of head and neck surgery where the reconstruction was performed with the assistance of digital surgical technology.