In-House Three-Dimensional Printing in Orbital Reconstructive Surgery: A Case Report and Future Perspectives

This article discusses the application of three-dimensional (3D) printing in reconstructing the orbital floor of a middle-aged male patient who suffered an orbital fracture due to a fall. A virtual 3D model of the fractured orbit was created using open-source software, allowing for the planning of the defect reconstruction by mirroring the contralateral orbit. A metal reconstruction plate was then molded based on the 3D printed model, sterilized, and utilized during surgery, which resulted in reduced surgical time and improved adaptation. This study examines the advantages, challenges, and future potential of 3D printing in reconstructive surgery, while also relating these findings to current literature on European regulations, costs, and workflows.