Subject-Specific Finite Element Modelling of Le Fort I Osteotomy Fixation: Biomechanical Insights Comparing Patient-Specific Implants and Conventional Miniplates

Background

Stable fixation is essential to prevent relapse after Le Fort I osteotomy, particularly during the early postoperative period when the fixation system bears the full masticatory load. Patient-specific implants (PSI) have been increasingly used, but their biomechanical behavior under postoperative surgical conditions remains insufficiently investigated. The aim of this study was to evaluate PSI fixation using subject-specific finite element modelling based on real surgical plans.