Advancing Education, Research, and Quality of Care for the Head and Neck oncology patient.
Introduction: Virtual surgical planning (VSP) has emerged as a key tool for improving the precision and consistency of complex head and neck reconstructions. Beyond enhancing functional and aesthetic outcomes, VSP holds value for education, particularly in resource-limited settings where access to specialized training is limited. This case report highlights a collaborative mission between Head and Neck Outreach and the Uganda Cancer Institute, showcasing the use of VSP for mandible reconstruction and training of international fellows.
Objective: To assess VSP’s utility as both a reconstructive tool and an educational platform for training head and neck fellows and residents during a surgical mission in Kampala, Uganda.
Methods: A Ugandan patient requiring mandibulectomy and fibula free flap reconstruction was selected. After initial evaluation by Ugandan physicians, appropriate imaging was obtained following VSP guidelines (finely cut images with zero-degree gantry tilt) and uploaded to an online VSP platform. Working with DePuy Synthes Proplan CMF, 3D models were created, and a collaborative virtual planning session was held with both Ugandan and international surgical teams. The customized models for the mandible reconstruction were then manufactured and delivered to the US-based team, sterilized, and brought to Uganda for use during the surgical camp..
Results: VSP facilitated an efficient preoperative planning process, allowing for the creation of patient-specific reconstructive guides. This collaborative planning enhanced the surgical precision and provided international and Ugandan trainees with a unique learning opportunity. Fellows observed the complete VSP process from preoperative planning (virtually) to surgical application, gaining hands-on experience in the nuances of mandible reconstruction.
Conclusion: Incorporating VSP into head and neck surgical outreach programs serves dual purposes: it improves reconstructive outcomes and provides an invaluable educational tool. This case demonstrates the potential for VSP to aid in training local surgical teams, fostering sustainable, long-term skill development. The model could be replicated to enhance both patient care and global surgical education in complex reconstructive cases.