Planning implant positions for an auricular prosthesis with digital data

Area of Science:

• Medical imaging and prosthodontics.
• Digital dentistry and reconstructive surgery.

Background:

• The esthetic outcome of auricular prostheses significantly depends on implant positioning.
• Accurate restoration of the auricle is crucial for patient quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline a digital workflow for auricular prosthesis fabrication.
• To improve the precision of implant placement for auricular reconstruction.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing computed tomography (CT) to capture the entire head surface.
• Employing computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) to mirror the contralateral ear.
• Creating a virtual template indexed to the nasal area, converted to an acrylic resin template for surgical guidance.

Main Results:

• Digital mirroring of the unimpaired ear provides a precise reference for the defect side.
• The CAD/CAM workflow facilitates accurate virtual integration of the prosthesis.
• The acrylic resin template aids surgeons and anaplastologists in determining optimal implant positions.

Conclusions:

• A digital workflow using CT and CAD/CAM enhances the esthetic results of auricular prostheses.
• This method allows for precise planning of implant placement, improving functional and esthetic outcomes.
• The virtual-to-physical template conversion is key for accurate surgical execution in auricular reconstruction.