Abstract
The aim of this research study centers around the design and development, using a three-dimensional model of an ear-splint. This study results from the need of a non-invasive method, as the current techniques used in otoplasty have succeeded in reducing the risk of complications, but without drastically reducing the rate of postoperative deformity. Indeed, stick out ears present a deformity that occurs in 5% of the population. Factors such as psychosocial impact and intimidation lay the foundations for the need for such a method. This paper essays to create, through 3D printing, a case customized into the ear of any person of all ages. The splint was made on Zortrax M200 3D printer model, equipped with the V3 Hotend head, and the material used for printing was 16 grams of Z-FLEX. It is noted that the creation of the case is innovative and original. After putting the ear-splint into test, by applying it on a human ear, two conclusions emerge. First, it is very light, weight, just 16 grams, and second, it offers comfort and convenience to the user. In order to get results for its practicality, a clinical rehabilitation study is recommended.
Highlights
Among the most common genetic abnormalities that can occur in the head areas are the stick-out protruding ears or prominent ears
We presented a non-invasive method of restoring the stick out protruding ears by using an artificial ear splint model
The way it was designed and manufactured allows it to be applied to different types of people with prominent ears, regardless of age and geometry of the ear, since one or more cases are created for each human individually, using reverse engineering and 3D printing techniques
Summary
Among the most common genetic abnormalities that can occur in the head areas are the stick-out protruding ears or prominent ears. Otoplasty is one of the most common pediatric otolaryngological procedures The signs of this deformity are mainly aesthetic and the corrective procedures are performed by a wide range of doctors, either in a private clinic, or by plastic surgeons or otolaryngologists and pediatricians. [1, 2, 3] Today, the correction is covered by a non-invasive method through the product "Earbuddies" as it seems in the figure 1. When the cartilage hardens over time, a permanent and controlled shape is created Both methods of otoplasty, invasive and non-invasive, present a number of problems that the invention is going to remedy. Invasive and non-invasive, present a number of problems that the invention is going to remedy There are both aesthetic and functional problems after completing the treatment. All the necessary steps that were followed during experimental procedure for the study, design and construction of the artificial ear splint are illustrated bellow
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