R_Bibb_Medical_Modelling_The_Application_of_Adv.pdf

172 Medical modelling
The cost of the scanning equipment is considerable, and it may be diffi -
cult for hospitals to justify the initial investment. For this reason, it may
prove more feasible for hospitals to use external service providers for the
cases where the approach is expected to produce superior results. The cost
of the scanning described in this paper would probably amount to several
hundred pounds with the LOM TM model costing approximately £120. The
costs incurred by this approach should be balanced against the improved
results and crucially the time saved over traditional methods. The reduction
in time taken allows more patients to be treated, reducing waiting lists (a
major goal of the British NHS).
The non-contact nature of the scanning means there is less discomfort
for the patient and no distortion of soft tissues caused by the pressure
applied when taking impressions. This advantage, in combination with the
ability to ‘mirror’ data, may have many applications in rehabilitation. It is
diffi cult, for example, to take a satisfactory impression of a breast; therefore,
a similar technique may be used in the creation of symmetrical prostheses
for mastectomy patients. From the results of this case study, it can
be concluded that three-dimensional scanning and medical modelling can
save a signifi cant amount of time for both the patient and the prosthetist.
Lateral inversion and high accuracy can be a signifi cant aid in prosthesis
manufacture, especially for large or complex cases. These techniques may
be a valuable aid to shaping and positioning the prosthesis, but the skill and
knowledge of the clinicians will determine the best method of creating,
colour matching and attaching the prosthesis to the patient.
6.8.5 References
1. Motavalli S (1998), ‘Review of reverse engineering approaches’, Computers in
Industrial Engineering, 35 (1–2), 25–8.
2. Wong H K, Balasubramaniam P, Rajan U, Chng S Y (1997), ‘Direct spinal
curvature digitization in scoliosis screening: a comparative study with Moiré
contourography’, Journal of Spinal Disorders, 10 (3), 185–92.
3. Tricorder Technology plc (1998), ‘Tricorder ships new measurement software’,
December 8 th Press Release, Tricorder Technology Ltd, The Long Room,
Coppermill Lock, Summerhouse Lane, Harefi eld, Middlesex, UB9 6JA, UK.
4. Bergman J N (1993), ‘The Bergman foot scanner for automated orthotic fabrication’,
Clinics in Podiatric Medicine and Surgery (Treatment biomechanical
assessment using computers), 10 (3), 363–75.
5. Bao H P, Soundar P, Yang T (1994), ‘Integrated approach to design and manufacture
of shoe lasts for orthopaedic use: reverse engineering in industry:
research issues and applications’, Computers in Industrial Engineering, 26 (2),
411–21.
6. Branemark P, De Oliveira M F, eds (1997), Craniofacial Prostheses,
Anaplastology and Osseointegration, Carol Stream IL, USA, Quintessence
Publishing, 101–10, ISBN: 0867153210.