Virtual Surgical Planning Computer-aided Design-guided Osteocutaneous Fibular Free Flap for Craniofacial Reconstruction: A Novel Surgical Approach

Advancements and increased availability of radiological services have revolutionised our approach to oncological and reconstructive surgical practice. With an increasing demand for accuracy in diagnosis and improved oncological outcome, the requirement for precise application of radiological tools and the exploration of novel software has developed. This has led to the evaluation of modern technologies such as computer-aided design to enhance reconstructive surgery. Mandibular reconstruction following oncological resection using an osteocutaneous fibular free flap is now considered to be the gold standard reconstructive surgical approach, as this approach provides more satisfactory outcomes for both patients and reconstructive surgeons. Recent years have seen Irish reconstructive surgeons introduce computer-aided design pre-operative planning to operating theatres as means of improving cosmetic, functional and oncological outcome, yet the detailed, complex planning required pre-operatively is not well described. Herein, the purpose of this article was to demonstrate the precision and accuracy of virtual surgical planning computer-aided design (VSP-CAD) as a modern surgical approach to craniofacial reconstruction following surgical resection of an American Joint Committee on Cancer stage 4 oral carcinoma.