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Orofacial prosthesis design and fabrication using stereolithography.
C L Morris1, R F Barber, R Day
1School of Oral Health Sciences, University of Western Australia.
Australian Dental Journal
|February 28, 2001
Summary
Stereolithography shows promise for creating custom mandibular prostheses, potentially improving both function and aesthetics after jaw resection surgery. Further research aims to enhance this technology for better patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Engineering
- Medical Device Manufacturing
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Background:
- Stereolithography (STL) is an emerging technology for implantable prostheses.
- Current STL applications in mandibular resection focus on pre-operative models and metallic frameworks.
- Existing frameworks restore some function but offer suboptimal aesthetic results due to lack of soft tissue support.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the accuracy of stereolithography in creating models for complete mandibular reconstruction.
- To assess the potential of STL in restoring both contour and soft tissue support in resected mandibles.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology.
- Employing stereolithography for the fabrication of custom mandibular prostheses.
- Investigating the accuracy of the fabricated models in reuniting resected mandibular surfaces.
Main Results:
- Initial results indicate the feasibility of using stereolithography for mandibular prosthesis fabrication.
- The study explored the potential for restoring full contour and soft tissue support.
- The technology is in the early stages of development for this specific application.
Conclusions:
- Stereolithography, combined with CAD/CAM, presents a novel approach for mandibular reconstruction.
- Further research and technological advancements are needed to optimize aesthetic outcomes.
- This technology could significantly improve results for patients undergoing mandibular resection.