Place of 3D printing in facial epithesis

J Stomatol Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2017 Sep;118(4):224-227. doi: 10.1016/j.jormas.2017.05.008. Epub 2017 Jun 19.

Abstract

Facial rehabilitation from facial epithets is part of the facial surgeon's therapeutic arsenal. The primary technique requires taking imprints on the patient, which has major drawbacks such as discomfort and difficulties for precisely recording anatomical surfaces. In this paper, we present a technical improvement in the design of facial epithesis, introducing application of a 3D printing technology. By exploiting digital data in DICOM format, it is possible to produce a digital copy of an epithesis. Based on this copy a model can be printed and then used to support the final prosthesis.

Keywords: 3D printing; Facial epithesis; Facial rehabilitation.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Alginates / chemistry
  • Face / pathology
  • Face / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Imaging, Three-Dimensional*
  • Male
  • Models, Anatomic
  • Oral Surgical Procedures / methods*
  • Plastic Surgery Procedures / methods*
  • Printing, Three-Dimensional*
  • Prosthesis Design / methods*
  • Prosthesis Implantation
  • Silicones / chemistry

Substances

  • Alginates
  • Silicones