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Treatment of Facial Deformities using 3D Planning and Printing of Patient-Specific Implants
Published on: May 23, 2020
Cases Series of Management of Poland Syndrome With Customized Silicone Implants
Jamie Walsh1, James O'Connor2, Sally Campbell2
1Royal College of Surgeons Ireland, Dublin, Ireland.
Background:
Poland syndrome is a rare congenital condition of the chest wall characterized by unilateral absence of the pectoral muscles. This is often associated with pectus deformities, rib and cartilage malformation, and breast hypoplasia, as well as with upper limb defects. Traditional methods for repair have involved cartilage resection, chest wall reconstruction, and myocutaneous flaps, and are associated with significant morbidity for patients. The variability of presentation and complexity of associated deformities poses challenges for surgical reconstruction, with limited evidence to guide operative decision-making.
Methods:
This is a study is a single-center experience of the use of customized 3-dimensional silicone elastomer implants in patients with Poland syndrome. Implants were designed using computer-aided design based on preoperative computed tomographic scans and manufactured at a single center. Data were collected retrospectively on 3 patients operated on between 2023 and 2024.
Results:
Three patients with Poland syndrome were treated with customized computer-aided designed silicone implants between 2023 and 2024. All had excellent cosmetic results. Repositioning of the implant was required in 1 patient. There was minimal morbidity associated with the procedure.
Conclusions:
This case series highlights the surgical management of Poland syndrome using custom-made 3-dimensional implants is feasible, safe, and yields excellent cosmetic results with high patient satisfaction. Custom-made implants answer the need for an individualized and tailored approach to surgical reconstruction in Poland syndrome.
