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Updated: Oct 1, 2025
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Published on: January 5, 2024
A Two-Stage Training Program for Auricular Framework Fabrication Practicing Using Three-Dimensional Printing Silicone
Ran Tao1, Weiwei Dong2, Pengfei Sun2
1Department of Plastic and Reconstruction, Shanghai Changhai Hospital Affiliated to Second Military Medical University, Shanghai.
Background:
The manufacture of cartilage framework is a key element in the success of total ear reconstruction. Appropriate training can improve cartilage curving and fabricating skills, which is especially helpful for the novice clinicians. Based on threedimensional printing silicone model and porcine rib cartilage, the authors have designed a 2-stage training program to improve skills and cosmetic cognition for ear reconstruction.
Methods:
The training program includes 2 successive stages. In the first stage, trainees completed observation of framework fabrication, design and sculpturing practice on silicone rib models. Porcine costal cartilages are used for fabrication in the second stage. After that, the framework was put in a latex glove connected with a suction to simulate the skin cover procedure in operation.
Results:
At the end of the training program, all trainees could fabricate an ear-shaped cartilage framework successfully. Their cosmetic cognitions of the ear have also improved.
Conclusions:
Based on three-dimensional printing silicone model and porcine rib cartilage, the authors have designed a 2-stage training program to improve trainee's carving techniques and cosmetic cognition for ear reconstruction. The authors believe that this training program is helpful in training, practicing and teaching activities of framework fabrication in total ear reconstruction.
