3D Biomechanical tongue model for management of tongue tumours:
Conceptualisation to reality
Abstract
Background: Increasing the use of tobacco by the younger generation has
increased in oral cavity tumours. Surgical treatment is radical and
results in severe functional morbidity. Using computer-aided designing
technology, surgical and rehabilitative planning can be better. We
present here our concept of a biomechanical 3D tongue model and its
clinical utility in the management of tongue tumours. Methods: Patients
diagnosed with Carcinoma of Tongue were included. These patients
underwent a pre-operative Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the head
and neck region at our center. These patients were informed about the
use of a 3D biomechanical patient-specific model for treatment planning
and execution. Using Materialise Mimics Innovation Suite 19 DICOM data
was imported, visualized, edited and segmented. Flashforge
‘Creator-pro’3D Printer was used for 3D Printing. Fused Deposition
Modeling (FDM) technology was used to print the tumour and uninvolved
tongue in two different colors for easy identification. These patients
underwent surgery with the 3D model serving as a guide for margins.
Results: Two patients with stage III squamous cell carcinoma of tongue
underwent the surgery based on the plan evolved from the 3D model. All
the surgical margins were clear. The model helped address the
discordance between patient expectations and surgical outcomes. We found
that the model aided the reconstructive surgeon to plan the flap volume
better and this translated into better rehabilitative outcomes.
Discussion and Conclusion: The 3D biomechanical tongue model is a novel
concept and may aid in improving our overall treatment outcomes.