An alternative technique for fabricating an interim nasal profile dressing using computer-aided design, spectrophotometry, and a color formulation software program

Abstract

A total rhinectomy may be part of the treatment of nasal malignancy and can cause severe facial disfigurement and unwanted psychological repercussions. A technique is described for fabricating a skin-colored interim nasal profile dressing for immediate fitting after surgery without the need for either preoperative or postoperative impressions. The technique avoids patient discomfort, and the initial emotional trauma of facial disfigurement may be avoided. The fabrication process includes the use of a preoperative computerized tomography scan, a computer-aided design software program, 3-dimensional printing, and spectrophotometry.