The Application of a 2D Printing of Rib Cartilage in Personalized Ear Framework Fabrication

Objective To explore a 1∶1 2D printing method of rib cartilage based on CT scanning in assisting ear framework fabrication for auricular reconstruction. Methods From January 2016 to January 2017, 73 cases of microtia aging from 5 to 7 referred to our department. A 1∶1 2D printing of rib cartilage based on CT scanning was applied in preoperative assessment and measurments of bilateral sixth, seventh and eighth costal cartilage were completed before the surgery. Personalized rib cartilage ear framework fabrication was determined by the measurements. Results Among the 73 cases, 58 cases received auricular reconstruction successfully. There were 15 patients whose rib cartilages did not meet the requirements and postponed the surgery. The patients who underwent auricular reconstruction were followed up for 6 to 12 months (average, 9 months). During the follow-up, 52 cases had satisfactory outcomes in size, shape, symmetry and details. No deformation of reconstructed ears or chest wall was found during the follow-up. Conclusions The 1∶1 2D printing based on CT scanning is a simple and timesaving way to evaluate the rib cartilage. It can be beneficial to save the amount of cartilage and improve the personalized ear framework fabrication. Key words: Reconstruction of auricle; Costal cartilage; Framework