Application of digital technology in nasal reconstruction

Abstract

Nasal defects are facial defects caused by trauma, tumors, or congenital diseases that seriously damage a patient’s physical and mental health. Nasal defects, from skin defects to total nasal defects, require surgical repair and reconstruction to restore the appearance and function of the nose, which have always been challenges for rhinoplasty. The development of digital technology has increased the possibility of nasal reconstruction. Digital technology is involved in the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative stages of nasal construction and is of great significance in improving the effect of this surgery. This article reviews the application of major digital technologies, including three-dimensional (3D) imaging technology, computer-assisted surgical navigation, and 3D printing, in nasal reconstruction and discusses the shortcomings of the current application of digital technology.