3D-Printed Peek Implants For Repairing Maxillofacial Bone Defects

The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of 3D-printed PEEK implants in personalized reconstruction of maxillofacial bone tissue defects and deformities. This study was a single-center case series. Seventeen patients who underwent maxillofacial bone tissue reparation and reconstruction with a custom-made 3D-printed PEEK implant were enrolled. Patient demographics, photographs, computed tomography (CT), and other clinical data were collected and analyzed pre- and post-operatively. The postoperative follow-up time ranged from 10 to 24 months. Fifteen patients did not have any post-operative complications and were satisfied with the cosmetic and functional results. Two patient had to undergo removal of the PEEK implant because of implant exposure after surgery. PEEK implants can repair and reconstruct different forms of defect and deformity in the maxillofacial bone tissue, maintaining the original shape of the bone, whilst not affecting jawbone functions, such as mastication and temporomandibular joint movement. However, PEEK implantation requires the strict selection of appropriate indications, especially with regard to the evaluation of soft-tissue conditions in the implanted area.