Clinical Application Of Computer Aided Design In The Treatment Of Pediatric Skull Deformity

Objective:To investigate application of the technique of Computer aided design and Digital manufacturing in the diagnosis and treatment of skull deformities.Methods:33infants with skull deformities diagnosed by CT thin layer scan and three dimensional reconstruction preoperative from Jun.2008to Jun.2012were reviewed. Establishment of the appropriate digital model by applying CT data, then, to design surgical programs through virtual reality; the use of digital manufacturing technology to produce surgical guide plate, to enact individualized surgical treatment. Thereby, the purpose of improvement of the operation efficiency and accuracy is achieved.Results:All cases were successfully implemented in accordance with preoperative program. Postoperative follow-up of Craniostenosis children, the aspect of skull was significantly improved. Brain tissue, along with the expansion of cranial cavity, had developed in different levels. Postoperative intelligence assessment had improved significantly. Follow-up of large skull children, head circumference had reduced5.5cm in average, the aspect of skull was significantly improved.Through completion of repair, the skull defect and children’s appearance were completely normal. Comparing traditional skull plastic surgery treatment, the design of surgery program was more personalized, and the accuracy of implementation of the surgery program was well supported. Meantime, operation time was significantly shortened, thereby, the incidence of surgical complications had reduced and the patients’postoperative recovery had promoted.Conclusion:The application of the technique of Computer aided design and Digital manufacturing in the diagnosis and treatment of skull deformities showed more effective in design and operation.