Template-guided visual try-in evaluation for nasal prosthesis modeling

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe a visual try-in evaluation framework for the template-guided modelling of a nasal prosthesis.

Design/methodology/approach

For patients with nasal defects, there is no self-information that can be used for the fabrication of the nasal prosthesis. Based on model retrieval from a database, the template-guided model construction method can ensure successful building of the nasal prosthesis. The deviation measurement between the two mid-planes of pre-operative and visual post-operative patient’s face allowed a virtual try-in approach in the symmetry evaluation of the prosthetic rehabilitation. The test of fit between the prosthesis model and the surrounding tissue data also provided an evaluation of whether the nasal prosthesis fit the patient’s appearance well before operation.

Findings

A case study confirmed that this visual try-in evaluation framework has potential to design the desired nasal prosthesis for daily clinical practice.

Practical implications

This technique facilitates modelling of nasal prostheses while helping to predict the effect before the prosthesis is manufactured.

Originality/value

This visual try-in evaluation framework has great potential for use in clinical applications because of its advantages on the aesthetic evaluation of the prosthetic rehabilitation.

Citation

Sun, J. (2016), "Template-guided visual try-in evaluation for nasal prosthesis modeling", Rapid Prototyping Journal, Vol. 22 No. 4, pp. 743-751. https://doi.org/10.1108/RPJ-11-2014-0160