“CBCT and 3DPrinted Models a Boon to Cleft Lip Palate Patients”

Objectives: Aim: 3D printed models are contemporary volumetric bone
graft assessment technique for secondary alveolar bone grafting in cleft lip
and palate patients. The study aimed at evaluation of longterm stability of
iliac autograft in SABG using multislice computed tomography and 3D printed
model based volumetric analysis.
Methods: Twenty eight patients were included in this prospective clinical study. CT image (T1) was taken
after orthodontic maxillary expansion, correlating with the presurgical image.
Furthermore, 3D printed model was prepared and volumetric assessment of graft
required was ascertained with water displacement technique. SABG was carried
on with the anterior iliac crest autografting procedure. After 1 year followup,
postoperative CT analysis (T2) was followed upon.
Results: The stability of bone graft at the 1 year postoperative was found to be 43.74% with mean bone loss of
56.26% (95% confidence interval; P < 0.005). The moderate scale of CLP cases
has shown statistically significant bone stability compared to that of severe and
mild cases. Furthermore, the 3D printed model has shown a significant difference
to that of T1 CT imaging (P < 0.005).
Conclusions: Within the limitations of the study, it seems appropriate to conclude that 3D printed models serves as better
reference than CT imaging in the context of planning and execution of precise
bone grafting in SABG.