Optimization of Cutting Guides in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

The goal of this project is to improve the accuracy and effectiveness of cutting guides used in oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMFS). Cutting guides are essential tools for ensuring accurate bone cuts during complex surgical procedures in the mouth, jaw and face. The focus will be on optimizing the design and manufacturing processes of these guides to improve their functionality and reliability. The project will begin with a thorough analysis of current cutting guide designs and their limitations. Based on this analysis, we will develop innovative designs that provide better fit, stability, and ease of use during surgery. Modern technologies such as computer-aided design (CAD) and 3D printing will be used to create these new models. In addition, we will explore the use of biocompatible materials to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the cutting guides. This initiative will be an interdisciplinary collaboration involving experts in medical engineering, medical informatics, and oral and maxillofacial surgery. Collaboration with practicing surgeons will be essential to this project. Their insights and feedback will help refine the designs to meet the practical needs of surgical procedures. By focusing on both technical and practical aspects, the project aims to produce cutting guides that significantly improve surgical accuracy and outcomes. Ultimately, the project aims to advance the field of OMFS by providing surgeons with improved tools that facilitate precise and efficient surgical procedures, leading to improved patient care and outcomes.

Partners

  • Chair of Medical Engineering, RWTH Aachen University
  • Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery & Institute of Medical Informatics (OMFS), Uniklinik RWTH Aachen

Funding

Funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) and the Ministry of Culture and Science of the German State of North Rhine-Westphalia (MKW) under the Excellence Strategy of the Federal Government and the Länder.

Publications

  • C. Melchior, P. Isfort, T. Braunschweig, M. Witjes, V. Van den Bosch, A. Rashad, J. Egger, M. de la Fuente, R. Röhrig, F. Hölzle & B. Puladi: Development and validation of a cadaveric porcine pseudotumor model for oral cancer biopsy and resection training. BMC Medical Education, 2024, 24(1), pp. 250 [DOI: 10.1186/s12909-024-05224-5]
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