fabrication of a cranial prosthesis combined with an ocular prosthesis using rapid prototyping: a case report

rapid prototyping (rp) is a technique of manufacturing parts by the additive layer manufacturing technology; where, a three-dimensional (3d) model created in a computer aided design (cad) system is sectioned into 2d profiles, which are further constructed by rp layer by layer. its use is not limited to industrial or engineering fields and has extended to the medical field for the manufacturing of custom implants and prostheses, the study of anatomy and surgical planning. nowadays, dentists are more frequently encountered with the individuals affected with craniofacial defects due to trauma. in such cases, the cranio-maxillofacial rehabilitation is a real challenge to bring the patients back to society and promote their well-being. the conventional impression technique for facial prosthesis fabrication has the disadvantage of deforming the soft tissue and causing discomfort for the patient. herein, we describe the fabrication of a cranial prosthesis combined with an ocular prosthesis with rp and stereolithography.