Assessment of a Novel Computer Algorithm for Printing a 3-Dimensional Nasal Prosthetic

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Medical Imaging
• Prosthodontics

Background:

• Creating custom nasal prostheses traditionally requires specialized expertise from an anaplastologist.
• Advancements in 3D imaging and printing offer potential for more accessible prosthetic fabrication.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and evaluate a novel computer algorithm for generating 3D nasal models.
• To assess the visual similarity between 3D-printed nasal prostheses and the original noses.

Main Methods:

• A computer algorithm utilizing 3D animation software (Blender) and image editing software (Adobe Photoshop) was developed.
• Photographs of five volunteers were processed to create 3D nasal models, which were then 3D printed.
• Medical professionals surveyed evaluated the similarity of the 3D-printed noses to the volunteers' photographs on a Likert scale.

Main Results:

• The mean overall similarity score between 3D-printed nasal models and photographs was 8.42 out of 10.
• Respondents correctly matched 3D-printed noses to the corresponding volunteers' photographs in 97.7% of cases.
• All surveyed clinicians expressed willingness to use this tool for temporary prosthesis creation.

Conclusions:

• The developed algorithm successfully models and prints 3D nasal prostheses with high fidelity to the original anatomy.
• This technique shows potential for creating temporary prostheses for external nasal defects, potentially bypassing the need for an anaplastologist.
• Further research is needed to determine the full clinical applicability of this 3D modeling and printing technique.