Point-of-care three-dimensional printing for craniomaxillofacial trauma

Computer-aided design, three-dimensional printing, and additive manufacturing are revolutionizing craniomaxillofacial trauma surgery. Traditionally, this is completed via third-party vendors during online web meetings. Although this is effective, it can take several weeks to have custom plates arrive, negating its use in acute facial trauma. The price of 3D printers and software needed to complete this in-house are decreasing. This allows for expedited turn around, facilitating treatment in the acute setting. This article serves as a review of fundamental 3D printing principles and describes the process of virtually reducing facial fractures, 3D printing the reduced models, and having a plate ready for surgery in hours