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

Abstract

(1) Background: In recent years, three-dimensional (3D) templates have replaced traditional two-dimensional (2D) templates as visual guides during intra-operative carving of the autogenous cartilage framework in microtia reconstruction. This study aims to introduce a protocol of the fabrication of patient-specific, 3D printed and sterilizable auricular models for autogenous auricular reconstruction. (2) Methods: The patient’s unaffected ear was captured with a high-resolution surface 3D scan (Artec Eva) and post-processed in order to obtain a clean surface model (STL format). In the next step, the ear was digitally mirrored, segmented and separated into its component auricle parts for reconstruction. It was disassembled into helix, antihelix, tragus and base and a physical model was 3D printed for each part. Following this segmentation, the cartilage was carved in the operating room, based on the models. (3) Results: This segmentation technique facilitates the modeling and carving of the scaffold, with adequate height, depth, width and thickness. This reduces both the surgical time and the amount of costal cartilage used. (4) Conclusions: This segmentation technique uses surface scanning and 3D printing to produce sterilizable and patient-specific 3D templates.

Cost-effective 3D scanning and printing technologies for outer ear reconstruction: current status

“…To this end, the surface of 3D objects in the real world can be scanned with different technologies. These technologies include, for example, line-scanning [50], structured-light scanners [51][52][53], LiDAR systems, and Time Of Flight (TOF) scanners, which are all capable of detecting and mapping shapes and forms of 3D-objects in the real world to three dimensional models [54,55]. The field of biomedical engineering has adapted various scanning methods, which includes those for facial scans [51,52,[56][57][58].…”

Current Status of Auricular Reconstruction Strategy Development

“…This method reduced the duration of surgery and yielded more satisfactory results. Rodríguez-Arias et al 95 performed high-resolution surface 3D scanning of patients’ normal ears and, through digital processing, mirrored, segmented, and separated the ears into multiple parts, which were then 3D printed. On the basis of the models of each ear part, rib cartilage sculpting was performed in the operating room, reducing the duration of surgery and the amount of rib cartilage used and making cartilage sculpting more convenient.…”

Surface scanning and 3D printing for optimized partial auricular reconstruction

“…Patient-specific model creation is already a routine in our department. The protocol detailed by Rodriguez-Arias et al, 1 is adapted to patient needs. It consists of four stages: surface scanning (Figure 3), model design and preparation, 3D printing, and surgery (Figure 4).…”