Computer-aided design and three-dimensional printing improves symmetry in heminasal reconstruction outcomes

Cheng I. Yen, Jonathan A. Zelken, Chun Shin Chang, Lun Jou Lo, Jui Yung Yang, Shiow Shuh Chuang, Cheryl A. Araniego, Yen Chang Hsiao*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalJournal Article peer-review

16 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background: Symmetry and balance in nasal reconstruction can be hard to achieve. Traditionally, a foil template modeled after the unaffected contralateral side is used in the design of a forehead flap. Crude two-dimensional models often generate underwhelming results. To better simulate complex nasal topography, three-dimensional printing technology was applied to nasal reconstruction. Methods: Between May 2012 and October 2016, twenty patients underwent forehead flap nasal reconstruction for heminasal deformities. Ten reconstructions were guided with prefabricated three-dimensional templates (CAD/CAM), and ten patients underwent traditional nasal reconstruction without CAD/CAM. In the CAD/CAM group, two templates were printed: contour guide and framework guide. These were a reference for skin flap design and cartilage framework design, respectively. Photographic records and photogrammetry was used to evaluate results. Results: The mean follow-up time was 19.3 months (range, 6 months to 38 months) in the control group and 17.4 months (range, 7 months to 35 months) in the CAD/CAM group. Without CAD/CAM, there was asymmetry in alar width, alar area, nostril height, width and area (p < 0.05) between reconstructed and native structures. In the CAD/CAM group, there were asymmetries of nostril-related parameters only. After quantifying asymmetries as a percentage, the CAD/CAM group demonstrated more symmetric reconstructions, particularly in alar width (p = 0.043) and alar area (p = 0.003). Conclusions: When CAD/CAM guidance and three-dimensional printing was used, there was greater symmetry between reconstructed and native structures of the nose.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1198-1206
Number of pages9
JournalJournal of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery
Volume72
Issue number7
DOIs
StatePublished - 07 2019

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 2019 British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons

Keywords

  • Computer-aided design
  • Computer-aided manufacturing
  • Mirroring
  • Nasal reconstruction
  • Three-dimensional printing

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Computer-aided design and three-dimensional printing improves symmetry in heminasal reconstruction outcomes'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this