- Harvey Chim: Division of Plastic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota.
- Nicholas Wetjen: Department of Neurosurgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota.
- Samir Mardini: Division of Plastic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota.
The complex three-dimensional anatomy of the craniofacial skeleton creates a formidable challenge for surgical reconstruction. Advances in computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing technology have created increasing applications for virtual surgical planning in craniofacial surgery, such as preoperative planning, fabrication of cutting guides, and stereolithographic models and fabrication of custom implants. In this review, the authors describe current and evolving uses of virtual surgical planning in craniofacial surgery.