Solutions for Prosthetists & Technologists

PATIENT-SPECIFIC ANATOMICAL MODELS
We provide three types of patient-specific anatomical modelling service:

·     scan data-to-3D printed model;
·     scan data-to-virtual model, to allow printing on your own machine;
·     and fabrication-only, by 3D printing your supplied virtual model (subject to meeting scan data segmentation standards).

For our comprehensive service, we will electronically receive your individual patient’s CT or CBCT scan-data directly from your PACS, and then segment for bone to create a virtual model of the region of interest. Then, we will 3D print your model(s) using robust industrial processes, transparent or translucent materials, and thorough clean-up methods. Specific structures can be highlighted in yellow, where required. Models are suitable for use in the laboratory, or for use in the operating theatre when not handled by the scrubbed team.

Contact us directly, using the details below, for all modelling enquiries. Please note, in-hospital design and 3D printing laboratory setup consultancy is available. See the Education and Training page for more details.

PATIENT-SPECIFIC RECONSTRUCTION AIDS
Prior to 3D printing an anatomical model, we can virtually restore missing bony contours or create supplementary models for reference during laboratory implant production, or stock implant customisation (shaping and bending). Suggested applications include reconstructed craniectomy defect models and orbital floor fracture models with ‘jigsaw piece’ repair overlays. In these instances, the laborious and potentially inconsistent manual carving stages are eliminated from the workflows of busy maxillofacial departments.
Contact us directly, using the details below, for all reconstruction aid enquiries.

SOFT-TISSUE PROSTHETICS MOULDS
To reduce the number of patient clinic visits, reduce the production time, and to improve the predictability of soft tissue prostheses, we can digitally design and 3D print detailed mould tools. Our techniques are based on peer-reviewed evidence 1,2,3 and acknowledge the vital importance of retaining the therapeutic benefits of clinician-patient contact, and the artistic benefits of prosthetist-led colouring.

Contact Dr, Dominic Eggbeer, using the details below, for all soft-tissue prosthetics enquiries.

1. Eggbeer D. The Computer Aided Design and Fabrication of Facial Prostheses. The National Centre for Product Design and Development Research. Cardiff, UK: University of Wales Institute Cardiff (UWIC), 2008.
2. Bibb R, Eggbeer D and Evans P. Rapid prototyping technologies in soft tissue facial prosthetics: current state of the art. Rapid Prototyping Journal. 2010; 16: 130-7.
3. Eggbeer D and Evans P. Computer-aided methods in bespoke breast prosthesis design and fabrication. Journal of Engineering in Medicine. 2011; 225: 94-9.
4. Daniel S and Eggbeer D. A CAD and AM process for maxillofacial prostheses bar-clip retention. Rapid Prototyping Journal. 2016; 22: 170-7.