Postraumatic reconstruction. Impact of modern imaging modalities and computer-assisted surgery

The facial skeleton is often affected by injuries which may leave patients not only with esthetic but also functional deficits. Computer-assisted reconstruction enables the operating surgeon to achieve predictable results of reconstruction of the facial skeleton. The combination of virtual preoperative planning, intraoperative navigation and intraoperative imaging is routinely used to treat trauma of the facial skeleton at the authors' hospital. With preoperative planning, the desired outcome of reconstruction can be accurately planned and implemented using intraoperative imaging and navigation. Intraoperative imaging complements treatment, allowing additional intraoperative validation of the results of surgery. Using computer-assisted surgery in treating trauma of the facial skeleton helps to avoid incorrect positioning of bone fragments and inserted implants. This represents a substantial progress in such complex operations and reduces the number of secondary reconstructions.