Fabrication of 3D Models for Microtia Reconstruction Using Smartphone-Based Technology

Abstract

Objective: Microtia reconstruction is technically challenging due to the intricate contours of the ear. It is common practice to use a two-dimensional tracing of the patient’s normal ear as a template for the reconstruction of the affected side. Recent advances in three-dimensional (3D) surface scanning and printing have expanded the ability to create surgical models preoperatively. This study aims to describe a simple and affordable process to fabricate patient-specific 3D ear models for use in the operating room. Study design: Applied basic research on a novel 3D optical scanning and fabrication pathway for microtia reconstruction. Setting: Tertiary care university hospital. Methods: Optical surface scanning of the patient’s normal ear was completed using a smartphone with facial recognition capability. The Heges application used the phone’s camera to capture the 3D image. The 3D model was digitally isolated and mirrored using the Meshmixer software and printed with a 3D printer (MonopriceTM Select Mini V2) using polylactic acid filaments. Results: The 3D model of the ear served as a helpful intraoperative reference and an adjunct to the traditional 2D template. Collectively, time for imaging acquisition, editing, and fabrication was approximately 3.5 hours. The upfront cost was around $210, and the recurring cost was approximately $0.35 per ear model. Conclusion: A novel, low-cost approach to fabricate customized 3D models of the ear is introduced. It is feasible to create individualized 3D models using currently available consumer technology. The low barrier to entry raises the possibility for clinicians to incorporate 3D printing into various clinical applications.

The utilization of three-dimensional imaging and three-dimensional-printed model in autologous microtia reconstruction

“…The use of 3D-printed templates also led to higher precision rates with lower mean errors for auricular length (0.39 ± 0.35 vs. 1.80 ± 1.44 mm; P <0.001) and width (0.30 ± 0.47 vs. 1.32 ± 0.88 mm; P <0.001) compared to X-ray films 6 , 27 . Furthermore, three technical notes and a case series demonstrated that the surgeons had noticed that using a 3D guide provided better accuracy 5 , 24 , 26 . The quality of the included cohort studies indicated a medium to low risk of bias.…”

Autologous Ear Reconstruction and 3D Printing, an Innovative Hybrid Surgical-engineering Reconstructive Approach for Custom-made Ear Models: Our Experience

“…Jeon et al 18 proposed a mirrored, sterilizable 3D print of the ear that can be used as a guide during reconstructive surgery. You et al 30 proposed a simplification of this approach by using a lidar iPhone camera instead of expensive 3D scanners to simplify and reduce the costs of this kind of surgery. Alhazmi et al 31 introduced a prefabricated, standard template that is sterilizable and printable in many sizes.…”

Microtia Ear Reconstruction with Patient-Specific 3D Models—A Segmentation Protocol

“…However, a study comparing various systems found that cheaper and more accessible systems (such as the iPhone) showed impressive results, considering it as an alternative to more expensive systems [16]. There have been subsequent publications that confirm the exactness and reliability of the systems, with similar acquisition times, making these systems more accessible and convenient for everyday practice [17].…”