Tiara Oktavia Saputri*🖂, Luthfir Rahman Nugraha Putra*, Bramasto Purbo Sejati**, Poerwati Soetji Rahajoe**
The accuracy of the curve and the proper adaptation of the reconstruction plate in place of the lost mandibular bone are key factors for successful reconstruction. Improper placement of the reconstruction plate can cause postoperative complications, as the difficulty of bending and positioning the plate during surgery prolongs the procedure, increases surgeon fatigue, and raises the risk of patient morbidity. The use of a plate positioning guide (PPG) and preoperative plate bending addresses these challenges, making the surgery more effective and efficient. The PPG facilitates the placement of reconstruction plates with the correct arch by serving as a transfer method for the reconstruction plate. This case report highlights the efficiency of mandibular reconstruction following resection with the aid of a PPG and preoperative plate bending. Two patients underwent mandibular resection and reconstruction surgery. One patient was treated using a PPG and preoperative plate bending, while the other underwent surgery with intraoperative plate bending. Clinical and radiological evaluations were performed at 1 month and 6 months postoperatively. The patient who underwent surgery using the PPG and preoperative plate bending showed better surgical outcomes, improved facial symmetry, and a shorter operating time. These findings align with existing studies comparing soft tissue symmetry in the lower facial third, the symmetrical width of the mandibular arches, and the consistency in the height of the reconstruction plate post-reconstruction. The use of a plate positioning guide (PPG) and preoperative plate bending can enhance the efficiency of mandibular reconstruction following resection.
Keywords: Mandibular reconstruction, PPG, Preoperative plate bending