Objective
Mandibular reconstruction is usually time-consuming and difficult, especially while the ultimate goal is to achieve good outcomes both functionally and aesthetically. The designs, materials, and fixation methods all contribute to the complexity. The growing technologies of Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacture (CAD/CAM) and three-dimensional (3D) work have been developed fast that provide better accuracy and efficiency. In this study, we aim to review the current literature and integrate the information regarding the application of 3D technology in mandibular reconstructions.

Material and methods
We presented one case using 3D-printing-asssited mandibular reconstruction in a delayed fashion. Moreover, a search of published articles indexed in database MEDLINE from 2016 to 2021 was performed. After the search, only those studies mentioning about their clinical cases using 3D-printing technique to aid the mandibular reconstructions using plates were included. The procedures included into their work and clinical outcomes were reviewed and recorded.

Results
Nineteen available articles that demonstrated their clinical cases using 3D-printing technique to aid the mandibular reconstructions using plates were discussed. Utilizations of 3D-printed prototyping models, virtual planning, and 3D-printed guides make mandibular reconstructions more precise and faster. Pre-bent plates produced using 3D-printed prototyping models had been adopted much as fixation methods to shorten the operative times, while direct 3D-printed patient-specific implants (PSIs) are developing recently. A free fibula bone flap has been the mainstay in choosing the material for bony reconstructions, followed by bone grafting.

Conclusions
Computer-aided design, virtual planning and 3D-printing techniques simplify, optimize and accelerate mandibular reconstructive surgeries. Finer post-operative functional and aesthetic outcomes lead to better satisfaction and life qualities that patients have. The applications involve a wide variety of options in materials and fixation methods, with different advantages and disadvantages reported.

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