Is there time for intraoperative scans?
Reviewed by Bilal Gani Taib

Intraoperative imaging plays an integral role in orthopaedic surgery during the repair of long-bone fracture. Given the complexity of the facial skeleton, intraoperative imaging has the potential for similar benefits in reconstructive surgery. The objectives of the study were to evaluate the time needed to perform intraoperative CT scans during maxillofacial reconstruction and identify the characteristics of cases that required intraoperative revision based on the CT scans. A retrospective review was conducted (n = 38). Fracture complexity was defined as either routine, when fractures were limited to one area of the facial skeleton, or complex, when more than one area was involved. In the study, nine out of 38 patients (24%) underwent an intraoperative revision based on the CT scan findings. The scans added approximately 14.5 minutes per case. The article also suggested that they fulfil an educational requirement as they provide timely and specific feedback to both the trainee and primary surgeons and may shorten the learning curve for proficiency in maxillofacial reconstruction. 

Use of intraoperative computed tomography for maxillofacial reconstructive surgery.
Shaye DA, Tollefson TT, Strong EB.
JAMA FACIAL PLASTIC SURGERY
2015;17(2):113-9.