Enhancing Prosthetic Nasal Rehabilitation Through Digital Technology

Abstract

Aims: This article explores the integration of digital technologies into the rehabilitation process of patients with nasal defects, typically resulting from neoplastic conditions, trauma, or autoimmune disorders.

Methods and results: Nasal defects, especially from total rhinectomies, significantly impact patients' psychosocial well-being, making effective prosthetic rehabilitation essential. Traditionally, prosthetic nasal rehabilitation was labor-intensive and required high expertise; however, advancements in digital tools such as intraoral and extraoral scanners, virtual implant planning software, and 3D printing have streamlined the process. These technologies enhance accuracy in implant placement and prosthesis fabrication while reducing manual effort and some expertise requirements. The use of digital tools allows for precise facial scans, which can serve as references for designing nasal stents and definitive prostheses. Polyjet 3D printing has enabled the creation of aesthetic and biocompatible nasal stents, improving upon traditional vacuum-formed stents. Additionally, craniofacial endosseous implants, guided by digital planning and surgical guides, offer better retention for nasal prostheses, improving patient satisfaction. The definitive nasal prosthesis is fabricated using a combination of digital and traditional methods, optimizing both efficiency and aesthetics.

Conclusion: This approach reduces barriers to care, making high-quality, personalized rehabilitation more accessible and improving the overall patient experience in managing nasal defects.

Keywords: 3D printing; computer‐aided design; computer‐aided manufacturing; digital; maxillofacial; nasal; prosthesis; rhinectomy; scanners.