Stereophotogrammetric Method for Fabrication of Cranioplast Using Digital Facial Scan Technology - A Case Report

RATIONALE: Traumatic brain injury is the most common cause of cranial defects. Cranioplasty is the surgical intervention performed to repair cranial defects. The purpose of a cranioplast is to protect the underlying brain tissues, reduce pain, and improve calvarial contour and symmetry. PATIENT CONCERNS: This case report describes the management of an ambulatory aided patient who met with a road traffic accident and had undergone decompressive craniectomy. DIAGNOSIS: Noncontrast computed tomography confirmed the frontal cranial defect and was planned for decompressive craniectomy. TREATMENT PLAN: An innovative multi-camera three-dimensional (3D) face-scanning software (Bellus 3D) was used for facial scanning to obtain a 3D face model and fabrication of 3D model using rich presence technology. OUTCOMES: The wax pattern was then fabricated on a 3D-prototyped model and a customised polymethylmethacrylate cranioplast was fabricated. TAKE-AWAY LESSONS: his method with the added advantage of rapid prototyping technology resulted in prosthesis with good aesthetics and better fit.