The application of three-dimensional printing in the management of a difficult airway due to Treacher Collins syndrome

Abstract

We describe the use of three-dimensional printing to create precise airway models for a patient with Treacher Collins syndrome who presented for bimaxillary temporomandibular joint prostheses, and for whom airway management was predicted to be difficult. The model was based on pre-operative cone beam computed tomography images and printed in the 3D Lab of Hospital Universitario La Paz. Transparent models allowed clear visualisation for simulation and iterative refinement of airway management techniques and aided in risk assessment and instrument sizing. This case report emphasises the utility of this approach in complex airway scenarios.