Shikara M, et al. - Researchers ascertained a novel computer algorithm for the creation of a 3-D model of a nose and assessed the similarity of appearance of the nasal prosthesis with that of the individual’s nose. In order to model and print a 3-D prosthesis of a human nose, this algorithm could be used. The photographs of each volunteer’s nose were closely depicted with the printed models to create a temporary prosthesis to fill external nasal defects, these can potentially be used.

Methods

• Experts conducted a prospective pilot study with a cross-sectional survey from August 1 to October 31, 2016, at a tertiary care academic center.
• They used 5 volunteers for creation of the nasal prostheses, and 36 survey respondents with a medical background were involved in assessing the nasal prostheses.
• They used a computer algorithm using a 3-D animation software (Blender; Blender Foundation) and Adobe Photoshop CS6 (Adobe Systems) to create a 3-D model of a nose.
• With the computer algorithm, photographs of 5 volunteers were processed.
• Using a desktop 3-D printer, they then printed the model.
• The survey was completed by the attending physicians, residents, and medical students and they were asked to rate the similarity between the individuals’ photographs and their 3-D printed nose on a Likert-type scale.
• The main outcomes and measures were the similarity between 3-D printed nasal models and photographs of the volunteers’ noses based on survey data.

Results

• As per data, 4 views for each of the 5 modeled noses (from 4 women and 1 man; mean [SD] age, 26.6 [5.7] years) was evaluated by 36 survey respondents.
• For the overall similarity between the photographs and the 3-D models the mean (SD) score was 8.42 (1.34).
• Findings suggested that for each nasal comparison, the mean scores ranged from 7.97 to 8.62.
• Results demonstrated that according to the survey, respondents were able to match the correct 3-D nose to the corresponding volunteers’ photographs in 171 of 175 photographs (97.7%).
• Data showed that all surveyed clinicians indicated that instead of referring to a prosthodontist they would consider using this tool to create a temporary prosthesis.