A personalized approach to non-invasive ventilation masks in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis using facial scanning and 3D-printing

Abstract

We fabricated personalized non-invasive ventilation (NIV) mask interfaces for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) participants. A NIV cushion design was fit to a contact profile from the participant's topographic facial model obtained from a 3D scanner then converted to a mold that was 3D-printed and subsequently cast with medical grade silicone and affixed to a mask frame. 3D scanner resolution plays an important role in mask interface fabrication, particularly around the nose, and iterative design changes may be needed. This may be an important new strategy to increase use of NIV for persons with ALS; further study is encouraged.