An innovative technique for fabricating a mirror image wax pattern using three-dimensional printing technology for an auricular prosthesis

Abstract

Congenital microtia is a major anomaly of the external ear. Ear prosthesis is considered to be one of the most difficult replacements in maxillofacial reconstruction. The convolutions and severe undercuts in the ear present the challenge in simulating exact normal ear contours. The advent of digital technology in maxillofacial prosthesis has allowed fabrication of exact anatomical models. Fabrication of mirror image remains the challenge as the conventional technique depends on the skills of the technician. The purpose of this article is to describe an innovative technique for fabricating a mirror image in constructing an auricular prosthesis.

Keywords

• mirror image
• stereolithography
• three-dimensional printing