Optimization of Maxillofacial Prosthesis

Today, both additive manufacturing (3D image technology and 3D printing) had been developed dramatically and involved virtually in all fields of medicine and surgery. It has been widely applied in surgical and prosthetic reconstruction of the craniofacial defects. The aim of this chapter is to characterize and assess the mechanical and optical properties of 3D colored printed soft tissue facial prostheses produced by Z-Corp-Z510 and infiltrated with Sil-25 maxillofacial silicone polymers. Mechanical properties assessed according to ASTM specifications for tensile strength, tear strength, hardness and percentage elongation. Furthermore depth of infiltration plus quality of infiltration was assessed. Scanning electron microscopy SEM was applied for this purpose to determine the characteristic of interaction and incorporation between the starch powder particles and the silicone polymers. Finally, method of color reproduction and evaluation for the printed prostheses are recommended.