3D printing in the head area

Abstract

Digital technologies are evolving at a very high pace in science and technology. They are also increasing their influence in the fields of dental and general medicine. The processes are inevitable and irreversible. The advantage of these technologies is that they can create medical devices with a complex geometric shape, in a shorter time and with greater accuracy. The materials from which the sites are built go through constant development and improvement. In dental medicine, printing is expressed in the manufacture of prosthetic dental structures of removable and non-removable type, training models, production of artificial prostheses for the needs of oral and maxillofacial surgery. In the field of otorhinolaryngology, 3D printing is used for the production of ectoprostheses in the removal of various inflammatory and tumor processes of the nose and ears, or as a result of occupational or traffic accidents. Printing also finds a place in ophthalmology for making eye prostheses. Regardless of the field of application, these technologies pose a challenge in their use in everyday clinical practice and are subject to constant monitoring by physicians and patients. Objective: To study the application of 3D printing in the head and in particular in otorhinolaryngology.