Metal 3D printing of prosthetics and implants for head and neck oncologic reconstruction

Indications for resection of maxillofacial and mandibular skeletal structures include extirpation of benign and malignant tumors, trauma, and congenital defects. Reconstruction of these structures often demands free tissue transfer incorporating bone and/or soft tissue with placement of rigid titanium implants to span the bony defect and anchor the autologous bone. Historically, such implants were mass-produced in standard formats, requiring manual bending during surgery to the patient’s specific bony anatomy. Recent technological and manufacturing advancements have permitted the use of three-dimensional (3D) printed, patient-specific maxillofacial and mandibular reconstructive prosthetics and implants. Preoperative 3D printing of patient-specific prosthetics and implants composed of titanium has revolutionized maxillofacial and mandibular reconstructive surgery and has been associated with improvements in operative efficiency, enhanced functional outcomes, and reduced complication rates in early studies. Herein, we review the history and current state of metal 3D printing of prosthetics and implants for head and neck oncologic reconstruction and posit future directions for innovation and surgical refinement in this area.