The Added Value of 3D Imaging and 3D Printing in Head and Neck Surgeries

Abstract

3D imaging and 3D printing are two methods that have been proven very useful in medicine. The objective of 3D medical imaging is to recreate the static and functional anatomy of the inner body. The development of computational systems for image processing and multidimensional monitoring of medical data is important for diagnosis and treatment planning. The technique of 3D printing has enabled the materialization of anatomical models and surgical splints using medical imaging data. The methods of 3D imaging and 3D printing have been utilized in various medical fields such as neuroimaging, neurosurgery, dentistry, otolaryngology and facial plastic surgery. This review aims to evaluate the use of 3D imaging and 3D printing techniques in head and neck surgery and concludes that these technologies have revolutionized medicine. However, improvements in healthcare systems and further research still have to be made to establish their use in everyday medical practices.