Evaluation of a 3D-Printed Cleft Palate Obturator Using a Low-Dose Cone Beam Computed Tomography Acquisition...

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Biomedical Engineering
• Craniofacial Surgery

Background:

• Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) is increasingly used for head and neck imaging.
• CBCT aids in treatment planning for cleft palate patients, enabling custom obturator fabrication.
• 3D-printed obturators can improve feeding and speech in individuals with cleft palate.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the feasibility of using 360-degree CBCT data for accurate cleft palate obturator production.
• To assess if a lower-dose 180-degree CBCT scan yields comparable obturator results.
• To evaluate the quality of 3D-printed obturators derived from different CBCT scan angles.

Main Methods:

• A simulated cleft palate was created on a human skull.
• The skull was scanned using both 360-degree and 180-degree CBCT protocols.
• Digital obturators were designed from segmented images and 3D printed.

Main Results:

• Both 360-degree and 180-degree CBCT protocols allowed clear visualization of anatomical landmarks.
• Segmented images and 3D-printed obturators showed identical scores across all evaluated parameters.
• The 180-degree scan produced an obturator of comparable quality to the 360-degree scan.

Conclusions:

• A 180-degree CBCT scan is a feasible alternative for producing high-quality cleft palate obturators.
• Utilizing a 180-degree scan offers reduced radiation exposure for patients.
• This approach supports efficient and effective treatment planning for cleft palate management.