3.8 Article

Applications and limitations of using patient-specific 3D printed molds in autologous breast reconstruction

Journal

EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF PLASTIC SURGERY
Volume 41, Issue 5, Pages 571-576

Publisher

SPRINGER
DOI: 10.1007/s00238-018-1430-3

Keywords

3D stereophotogrammetry; Patient-specific template; Breast reconstruction; 3D printed; 3D printing

Categories

Ask authors/readers for more resources

BackgroundOver the last years, several techniques have been proposed to improve the outcome of autologous breast reconstruction procedures. One of these innovations describes patient-specific, three-dimensional (3D) printed breast molds for intraoperative use based on 3D stereophotogrammetry. In this article, we want to share our preliminary experiences with producing such templates, its clinical possibilities and limitations in practice. MethodsPatient-specific templates were designed based on 3D stereophotogrammetry images. The 3D template was fabricated using a 3D printer. During breast reconstruction, the autologous flap was placed inside the printed template to aid the surgeon in determining the shape and volume of the autologous flap creating the desired breast dimensions. Patients were 3D-photographed 6 to 9months post-operatively. ResultsThree patients with unilateral breast reconstructions showed a width difference of 0.5cm and mean volume difference of 211ml between the reconstructed and contralateral breasts. In the three bilateral reconstructed patients, a mean difference in breast width and volume of respectively 0.5cm and 16ml was found. ConclusionsPatient-specific breast templates are inexpensive and relatively easy to design, while being practical and convenient to obtain insight in the dimensions of the desired breast during reconstruction, according to the operating surgeons. Patient selection is however critical, as patients must have sufficient donor volume and/or satisfying breast shape to be able to use the template to its full potential.Level of evidence: Level IV, therapeutic study.

Authors

I am an author on this paper
Click your name to claim this paper and add it to your profile.

Reviews

Primary Rating

3.8
Not enough ratings

Secondary Ratings

Novelty
-
Significance
-
Scientific rigor
-
Rate this paper

Recommended

No Data Available
No Data Available