Computer-guided chin harvest: A novel approach for autogenous block harvest from the mandibular symphesis.

BACKGROUND: The introduction of CAD/CAM technology allowed clinicians to carry out complex procedures with a high level of precision and reproducibility and minimize the risk of injury during the procedure.

PURPOSE: The aim of the present study is to evaluate the efficacy of the CAD/CAM surgical guide during chin harvesting procedures in reducing the risk of neurosensory damage and patient morbidity compared with the standard technique.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: About 20 cases of autogenous block chin harvest were randomly into two groups. The first group received computer-guided chin block harvest while the second group received autogenous block chin harvest using the standard approach.

RESULTS: In the guided group, out of the 10 subjects, 2 subjects presented with wound dehiscence which resolved within 1 month. No teeth showed any negative pulp sensitivity results. The pointed-Blunt test and 2 point discrimination tests showed a single case of neurodeficits at 1 week follow-up appointment which resolved within 1 month. In the nonguided group, out of the 10 subjects, 1 case presented with wound dehiscence that resolved completely within 1 month. Pulp vitality test showed negative results in 29.4% of the involved teeth at 1 week which decreased to 9.8% and 3.9% at 1 and 6 months follow-up, respectively. The pointed blunt test revealed 3 subjects with neurodeficits at 1 week, out of which 2 subjects showed persisting symptoms at 6 months follow-up. The 2 point discrimination test showed 3 subjects with neurodeficits, out of which two subjects showed persistent symptoms with no resolution at the 6 months follow-up.

CONCLUSION: Within the limits of this study, computer-guided chin harvest shows promising results in the reduction of neurosensory complications following harvesting procedures and presents as a safe alternative to the standard technique.