Method for Fabricating Transparent Patient-Specific Vocal Tract Replicas.

Abstract

Transparent, patient-specific vocal tract replicas are helpful in research and educational endeavors but challenging to procure. An accessible method for fabricating these models, improving on previously suggested processes, would make them more widely available. Detailed instructions for fabricating a transparent, patient-specific vocal tract model were addressed. The broad steps were (1) digitally reconstructing (patient-specific) vocal tract geometry, (2) producing a vocal tract mold (using methods such as three-dimensional [3D] printing), and (3) casting transparent material (such as silicone) around the vocal tract mold and removing the mold. The cavities remaining within the cast represented the exact geometry of the vocal tract. A combination of 3D printing and silicone casting can produce useful vocal tract replicas. Several simple changes to previous methods can improve consistency and reduce the labor and cost of production. Limitations and potential modifications to expand the applications of this method are discussed.