Full-Digital Workflow for Fabricating a Custom-Made Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) Mandibular Implant: A Case Report

Abstract

Direct Laser Metal Sintering (DLMS) is an additive manufacturing (AM) technique that is capable of manufacturing metal parts according to a three-dimensional (3D) design made using computer-assisted-design (CAD) software, thanks to a powerful laser beam that melts selectively micro-powder layers, one on top of the other, until the desired object is generated. With DMLS, it is now possible to fabricate custom-made titanium implants for oral and maxillofacial applications. We present the case of a 67-year-old woman diagnosed with a squamous cell carcinoma of the mandible. The patient underwent subtotal mandibular resection; conventional reconstruction procedures failed to rehabilitate the function of the mandible. A prosthesis replacing the resected mandible was designed and fabricated using a digital workflow. The extensive bone defect was rehabilitated with a prosthesis replacing the mandibular bone and supporting a morse-taper dental prosthesis. The masticatory function was reestablished.