Patient-Specific 3D-Printed Rhinoplasty Operative Guides

Abstract

Three-dimensional (3D) imaging technology has become a popular clinical technology for surgical planning and simulation in rhinoplasty. This technology offers the opportunity to translate a simulated 3D image into a surgical plan in the operating room in a quantitative manner. Herein, we describe a technique for creating patient-specific 3D-printed rhinoplasty marking templates from preoperative 3D imaging. Five adult patients presenting for primary rhinoplasty were recruited as subjects. 3D photographs were captured of each patient, and goals of surgery were digitally simulated based on patient preference. Simulated and baseline digital renderings were exported to a third-party 3D printing company. 3D-printed plastic molds were created to precisely fit the patient’s preoperative nose when overlaid on the dorsum. Molds included windows through the lateral walls corresponding to the preoperative simulation whereby the patient’s desired dorsal height and contour was marked on the skin immediately prior to surgery. 3D image capture, digital rendering, and goals of surgery simulations were created using standard office-based 3D imaging equipment and added an additional 10 minutes the standard preoperative rhinoplasty consultation. Turnaround time was 5 days and cost was $100 per patient. The senior author found the patient-specific marking templates to effectively transfer the patient’s desired dorsal height and contour onto the patient in the form of skin markings. The technique described herein aids quantitative translation of patient goals in dorsal reduction rhinoplasty into the operating room and onto the patient in the form of preoperative marking. The workflow is fast, cost-effective, uses standard office-based technology, and requires little technological expertise.