Caudal maxillectomy performed for canine maxillary tumor excision has been associated with higher incidence of major hemorrhage and recurrence rates compared to other oromaxillofacial locations. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the accuracy and efficiency of stereolithography guided (3D printed) caudal maxillectomy in cadaveric dogs. Mean absolute linear deviation from planned to actual osteotomy lines and mean procedure duration were compared between three study groups, with 10 cadaver heads per group: 3D printed guided caudal maxillectomy performed by an experienced surgeon (SG), a novice surgery resident (NG), and freehand procedure performed by an experienced surgeon (SF). Accuracy was higher for SG versus SF, and statistically higher for There was no statistical difference in accuracy between SG and NG. The highest absolute mean linear deviation recorded in SF, NG, and SG groups were 5.46±4.28 mm, 3.19±1.64 mm, and 1.98±0.81 mm, respectively, and occurred at the orbit osteotomy. Procedure duration was significantly longer for SG than SF, and for NG than SG (p<0.001). This study confirms that the use of this custom-made guide helps improve cutting accuracy and allows for a novice surgeon to more easily perform the procedure. Though the guided maxillectomies tended to take more time than freehand, the improved accuracy could prove beneficial in achieving complete oncologic margins, and the time increase might be acceptable if hemorrhage can be adequately controlled. Further development in custom guides may improve ease of use, accuracy of the orbit osteotomy, and rapidity of the procedure.
