Three-dimensional assessment of the maxillary and mandibular donor sites on cone-beam computed tomography images using Mimics software

Abstract

Purpose To assess the maxillary and mandibular donor sites on cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images using Mimics software. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted on 80 CBCT scans. Data in DICOM format were transferred to Mimics software version 21, and a maxillary and a mandibular mask according to cortical and cancellous bones were virtually created for each patient based on Hounsfield units (HUs). Three-dimensional models were reconstructed, boundaries were defined for donor sites including mandibular symphysis, ramus, and coronoid process, zygomatic buttress, and maxillary tuberosity, and virtual osteotomy was conducted on the 3D models to harvest bone. The volume, thickness, width, and length of harvestable bone from each site were quantified by the software. Data were analyzed by independent t-test, one-way ANOVA, and Tukey’s test (alpha = 0.05). Results The greatest difference in harvestable bone volume and length was observed between ramus and tuberosity (P < 0.001). The maximum and minimum harvestable bone volumes were found in symphysis (1753.54 mm3) and tuberosity (84.99 mm3). The greatest difference in width and thickness was noted between the coronoid process and tuberosity (P < 0.001), and symphysis and buttress (P < 0.001), respectively. Harvestable bone volume from tuberosity, length, width and volume from symphysis, and volume and thickness from the coronoid process were significantly greater in males (P < 0.05). Conclusion The harvestable bone volume was the highest in symphysis followed by ramus, coronoid, buttress, and tuberosity. The harvestable bone length and width was the highest in symphysis and coronoid process, respectively. Maximum harvestable bone thickness was found in symphysis.