Fabrication of a wax ear by rapid-process modeling using stereolithography

Purpose: The purpose of this article is to describe an automated technique that creates a mirror-image wax model of the contralateral ear using a rapi d prototyping technique, which allows precise positioning and adaptation to the deficient side of the face. Materials and Methods: Magnetic resonance images (MRI) are taken of the face and then digitized and reformatted into a 3-dimensional image. The image of the normal ear is extracted, mirrored, and positioned onto the image of the deformed side of the face. The digitiz ed data, when used in conjunction with stereolithography, produces a photop olymerized resin model ear. A model wax ear is created by pouring molten wa x into a silicone mold of the resin model ear. Results: A model wax ear of identical dimensions, shape, and internal contouring as the contralateral n ormal ear is created. The technique allows the undersurface of the model wa x ear to be precisely positioned against the surface contours of the deform ed side of the face in 1 patient. Conclusion: The use of stereolithography from MRI scan data is a suitable technique for producing a model wax ear th at fits the deformed side of the face. The 3-dimensional computer image of the face may also be used to plan the position (level and protrusion) of th e ear.