Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 3, 2026
08:15
3D Planning and Printing of Patient Specific Implants for Reconstruction of Bony Defects
Published on: August 4, 2020
7.1K
The technique for 3D printing patient-specific models for auricular reconstruction
Roberto L Flores1, Hannah Liss2, Samuel Raffaelli2
1Hansjörg Wyss Department of Plastic Surgery, New York University School of Medicine New York, NY 10010, USA.
Summary
This study presents a new method for creating patient-specific, 3D printed ear models for reconstructive surgery. These inexpensive, sterilizable models improve surgical accuracy compared to traditional 2D methods.
Area of Science:
- Medical Engineering
- Plastic Surgery
- 3D Printing Technology
Background:
- Current autogenous microtia repair relies on 2D tracings for 3D construct creation, presenting significant surgical challenges.
- A need exists for improved methods in auricular reconstruction to enhance accuracy and reduce estimation.
- Patient-specific models can potentially bridge the gap between 2D planning and 3D surgical execution.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce the fabrication of patient-specific, sterilizable 3D printed auricular models for autogenous auricular reconstruction.
- To address the limitations of traditional 2D templating in microtia repair.
- To provide surgeons with accurate, tangible guides for complex ear reconstruction.
Main Methods:
- High-resolution 3D digital photography of the unaffected ear was performed.
- Digital models were created using specialized software, digitally modified, and then 3D printed using polylactic acid (PLA) filament.
- The 3D printed models were sterilized for intraoperative use.
Main Results:
- Sterilized 3D auricular models facilitated more accurate anatomic measurements in the operating room compared to 2D tracings.
- The use of these models significantly reduced the degree of estimation required by surgeons.
- The fabrication cost was minimal, approximately $1 per model, utilizing about 20g of PLA filament.
Conclusions:
- A sterilizable, patient-specific, and inexpensive 3D auricular model can be fabricated using readily available resources like 3D digital photography and printing.
- This technique offers a promising approach for intraoperative guidance in auricular reconstruction.
- Customized 3D printed models serve as effective 'guides' for surgeons, enhancing precision in ear reconstruction.
