Bhopal: A 62-year-old woman from Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh, who had been struggling for years with chronic jaw pain, facial deformity, and difficulty in eating and speaking, has shown significant recovery after undergoing a complex artificial jaw replacement surgery at AIIMS Bhopal.
The patient had earlier received two jaw reconstruction surgeries using standard titanium plates at a private hospital. However, both implants failed due to breakage. Despite multiple consultations at different hospitals, she found no lasting solution until she approached the Trauma and Emergency Department at AIIMS Bhopal.
A multidisciplinary team of specialists led by Dr. B. L. Soni, maxillofacial surgeon, assessed her case and designed a patient-specific titanium jaw implant. Dr. Soni, with over 10 years of experience in facial reconstruction, used advanced computer-assisted planning and in-house software to create a virtual surgical plan based on CT and MRI imaging.
“This was a complex case requiring a customized solution,” said Dr. Soni. “We created a 3D-printed model of the patient’s jaw and tested the implant on it to ensure a precise fit and long-term durability.”
The titanium implant was milled from a solid block for added strength, unlike traditional powder-based 3D-printed implants. The surgery was carried out with support from specialists in trauma and emergency medicine, including Prof. Mohammad Yunus and Dr. Saurabh.
Post-surgery, the patient has regained her ability to eat and speak independently, and her facial symmetry has improved significantly.
Her son expressed gratitude, saying, “My mother has regained her normal life. She can now talk, eat, and spend joyful time with our children again. We’re thankful to AIIMS Bhopal’s team for making this possible.”
Dr. Ajay Singh, Executive Director of AIIMS Bhopal, praised the team’s efforts.
“This surgery reflects our commitment to patient-centered care and use of advanced medical technology to improve outcomes,” he said.
The procedure shows the growing capabilities of AIIMS Bhopal in handling complex maxillofacial cases, offering advanced treatment options within the region and reducing the need for referrals to metro cities.