Experimental modeling of mandibular defect and analysis of the functional efficiency of the jaw exoskeleton

Modeling of jaw bone defects after bisphosphonate administration is presently an urgent task of oral surgery. Methods for virtual modeling of pathological processes and ways for their elimination are becoming increasingly popular in experimental studies. However, biomedical research with experimental animals, which is strictly regulated by law, does not lose its relevance. The choice of a model for our study has been based on the assumption that bisphosphonate-associated osteonecrosis and jaw defect in experimental animals are identical to human clinical presentations. In addition, this study considers the development of devices for correcting biomechanical problems and positioning the jaw bone fragments. Simulated subtotal mandibular defects are accompanied by restricted mouth opening, malnutrition and, as a result, inhibited habitual functional activity in the experimental animals. This has served as a guide for incorporating the simultaneous fixation of fragments with a multifunctional device, such as with the mandibular exoskeleton, into the protocol of surgical intervention. Positive changes in the early postoperative period have been characterized by restoration of the biomechanical balance of the dentition. The findings provide evidence that it is necessary to modernize the device and to test the exoskeleton in patients with subtotal mandibular defects.