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Three-dimensional models of the tracheostoma using stereolithography
W Grolman1, P F Schouwenburg, B Verbeeten
1Department of ENT and Head and Neck Surgery, Dr. Daniel Den Hoed Cancer Clinic/University Hospital Rotterdam, Netherlands.
ORL; Journal for Oto-Rhino-Laryngology and Its Related Specialties
|November 1, 1995
Summary
Three-dimensional (3-D) models of tracheostomas were created using stereolithography from CT scans. These accurate 3-D models enable safe prototyping for endotracheal prostheses and fixation methods.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Biomedical Engineering
- Prosthetics Design
Background:
- Accurate three-dimensional (3-D) models of the tracheostoma and trachea are crucial for developing endotracheal prostheses in laryngectomy patients.
- Stereolithography has been used for hard tissue models but not extensively for soft tissue reconstructions of the trachea.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a novel application of stereolithography for creating accurate 3-D soft-tissue and air contour models of patient tracheostomas.
- To demonstrate the utility of these 3-D models for safe measurements and prototyping of endotracheal prostheses and fixation methods.
Main Methods:
- Computed tomography (CT) scans were performed on the tracheostomas of 8 patients.
- CT data were utilized to generate 3-D models via stereolithography, including both soft-tissue and inverted air contour models.
Main Results:
- Eight accurate and highly detailed soft-tissue 3-D models and 8 air contour models of tracheostomas were successfully reconstructed from CT data.
- The study demonstrated the feasibility of creating precise 3-D models of tracheostomas.
Conclusions:
- Stereolithography offers a viable method for producing accurate 3-D models of tracheostomas for laryngectomy patients.
- These 3-D models facilitate safe and effective prototyping for endotracheal prostheses and the development of new fixation techniques for tracheostomal valves.