The Computer Evolution in Simulation Surgery

When modern-day techniques were coupled with advanced computer simulation (or simulated) surgery, the preoperative planning of bony reconstruction could also be accomplished through repeated trials in programs such as the three dimensional computed tomographic image-based Leksell Surgiplan® (Elekta AG, Sweden) system. Please click HERE for an animated example of an application of the Surgiplan® system to plan reconstruction of the skull in a case of cloverleaf anomaly in a 1-year-old boy.
(Note: Flash player required, 6 Mb download)

    The computer can also be used to drive stereolithographic machines to produce life-sized 3-D solid resin models based on enhanced 3-D CT data. In cases of cranial or maxillofacial defects, the model duplicates accurately the defect, and a prosthesis can be designed to repair the defect before surgery thus saving a great deal of intraoperative time when only fine tuning of the prefabricated prosthesis is required rather than carving it from scratch. Please click HERE for an animated example of this technique.
(Note: Flash player required, 600 kb download)