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Otolaryngology, ENT & Sinus News Provided by Dallas ENTThe role of technology in facial prostheticsAugust 1, 2010, 12:00 pm by Current Opinion in Otolaryngology & Head and Neck SurgeryPurpose of review: Technology has the potential to transform the fabrication process of facial prosthetics. The purpose of this review is to highlight the pertinent technological advances in computerized shade selection, three-dimensional digital photography, virtual surgical planning, surface scanning, and three-dimensional imaging to obtain the wax pattern. Recent findings: There have been a few reported studies documenting the effect of computerized color formulations for facial prosthesis. The technology is still in its infancy and may serve as a tool to manage metamerism and to complement the subjective clinical assessment of the clinician. Three-dimensional photography, surface scanning, and three-dimensional imaging have been used successfully in the fabrication of facial prostheses. Software programs which allow the clinician to plan virtually implant placement allows the treatment planning process to be much more prosthetically driven. Even with the technological advances, it is perhaps most important to remember the basics of proper preparation of the defect to accept the prosthesis. Summary: The incorporation of technology into the fabrication process of facial prostheses can potentially transform the treatment process from a time-consuming artistically driven process to being a reconstructive biotechnology process. (C) 2010 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Inc.
More from Current Opinion in Otolaryngology & Head and Neck Surgery Surgical management of common peripheral vestibular diseases Current Opinion in Otolaryngology & Head and Neck Surgery: August 20, 2010, 6:00 am Purpose of review: To review the latest developments in the surgical management of common peripheral vestibular disorders. Recent findings: Although surgery is indicated mainly for patients with Meniere's disease, other less common disorders Cochlear efferent innervation and function Current Opinion in Otolaryngology & Head and Neck Surgery: August 20, 2010, 6:00 am Purpose of review: This review covers topics relevant to olivocochlear-efferent anatomy and function for which there are new findings in papers from 2009 to early 2010. Recent findings: Work within the review period Reconstruction of cheek defects: a review of current techniques Current Opinion in Otolaryngology & Head and Neck Surgery: August 1, 2010, 12:00 pm Purpose of review: The article discusses the fundamental principles of cheek reconstruction and summarizes recently published techniques and reviews in the field. Recent findings: Reconstruction of the cheek is a complex endeavour. Patient, Editorial introductions Current Opinion in Otolaryngology & Head and Neck Surgery: August 1, 2010, 12:00 pm No abstract available Editorial introduction to the maxillofacial surgery section Current Opinion in Otolaryngology & Head and Neck Surgery: August 1, 2010, 12:00 pm No abstract available
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