Fabrication of an Auricular Prosthesis Using Computed Tomography and Rapid Prototyping Technique

This article describes the use of computed tomography and rapid prototyping method to Produce a was pattern of a missing ear. Computed tomographic scans were obtained from the patient, and a three-dimensional digital image was produced using I computer-aided design software. Then, the image of the present ear was extracted, and its mirror image was obtained with the software. The pattern of the inverted three-dimensional cast was produced using a rapid prototyping machine. The cast was duplicated in wax of identical dimensions and shape of the opposing ear, and the auricular prosthesis was fabricated with traditional methods.