3D Printing

3D printing is being used in multiple applications in medicine and industry. This technology has been adapted for use by Oral Maxillofacial surgeons. One of these applications is in the field of pathology. We have always struggled to accurately rebuild missing bony structures that are removed in the process of tumor excision or lost secondarily to trauma.

We can now use 3D printing to custom design titanium plates and other materials to accurately help the surgeon maintain or rebuild accurate reproductions of the lost bony structures. This technology combined with new types of bone reconstruction such as BMP saves the patient time and amount of surgery needed to rebuild the bony structures. We can now plan the optimal final result and then work backward to help the patient to regain function and esthetics after tumor resection.