Fabrication of 3D-Printed Implant for Two-Stage Ear Reconstruction Surgery and Its Clinical Application.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

Ear reconstruction is one of the most difficult areas in the field of reconstructive surgery. Due to limitations of the current practice, a novel method of auricular reconstruction is needed. Major advancements in three-dimensional (3D) printing technique have rendered the process of ear reconstruction more favorable. Herein, we present our experience in designing and clinically using 3D implants in both 1st and 2nd stage ear reconstruction surgery.

Materials and methods

After obtaining 3D CT data from each patient, a 3D geometric ear model was created using mirroring and segmentation processes. The 3D-printed implant design resembles but does not exactly match the normal ear shape, and can be inserted in harmony with the currently used surgical technique. The 2nd st

SUBMITTER: Joo OY 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10067794 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature