The Significance of Computer Modeling and 3D Printing Technology for Facial Ectoprosthetics
The integration of information technologies in healthcare practice significantly changes the methods of diagnosis and treatment, the forms of interaction of doctors with patients and colleagues, the organization of treatment and recovery of health. The field of reconstruction of the auricle is still a huge challenge for facial plastic surgeons and requires at various techniques to find the best treatment for each patient. The paper describes the application of computer modeling and laser stereolithography technology in surgical practice for auricular surfaces ectoprosthetics. To improve the accuracy and quality of the surgical intervention the positioning of external prosthesis is applied with the aid of personal templates and computer navigation. The accuracy of ectoprosthesis positioning when using a plastic mask template was 0.3-0.4 mm, while computer navigation was 0.1 - 0.2 mm. Using personalized templates is a simpler and more intuitive way of positioning that does not require expensive computer navigation systems. This example of ectoprosthetics shows the possibilities of various reconstructions of facial organs, not only the ear, but also, for example, the nose, using computer modeling and 3d printing technologies