Background: Microtia is a rare and severe craniofacial
abnormality that impairs newborns' appearance. The most
favored treatment for microtia is autologous ear reconstruction.
It is essential for the reconstruction process that surgeons
provide templates of their patients' normal auricles to be
shaped. Traditionally, 2D models have been utilized everywhere.
The rising use of 3D printing in the medical field has
led to several improvements, especially the development of
patient-specific models based on actual imaging data.
Objectives: This study compared the satisfaction of patients
regarding the aesthetic outcomes between 2D & 3D modelling.
Patients and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 44
patients; with unilateral microtia underwent autologous ear
reconstruction using costal cartilage graft were selected.
Bilateral cases and Anotia types were excluded. Costal cartilages
of 6th to 8th ribs were harvested in the 1st stage to shape
the framework, 32 patients underwent 3D model planning
while 12 patients were managed by 2D template. Elevation
of the framework was done in the 2nd stage after 3-6 months.
Satisfaction was recorded using a questionnaire form 4 months
postoperatively.
Results: Scores of 3D in specific items were significantly
better than those in 2D. It was highly significant difference
in satisfaction regarding concha subunit and separation of the
auricle.
Conclusion: After autogenous ear reconstruction, 3D
modelling is more effective than 2D modelling at improving
patient satisfaction, particularly with regard to the concha's
form and separation from the scalp < /p>