Stereolithographic model construction from CT for assessment and surgical planning in congenital aural atresia.

Surgical planning for the treatment of congenital aural atresia has depended greatly on the use of high resolution computerized tomography (CT) and, recently, three-dimensional CT for visual representation of the complex anatomy associated with this condition. Computerized plastic model construction, stereolithography, allows the digital data obtained through CT scanning to produce a life-size anatomically accurate plastic model of the structure scanned. When this technique is applied to congenital aural atresia there is good bony surface rendering as well as complete representation of the deeper structures contained within the temporal bone, including the middle ear cleft, ossicular mass, and fallopian canal. The surgeon can use this model to augment imaging in becoming familiar with the patient's unique anatomy and to practice a planned surgical procedure.