Facial Prosthetics: An Evolving Field

Also, patients will need to be prepared for taking care of the prosthetic device-attaching, removing, and cleaning it.

Patients need to know that prostheses have a limited life span. They should be aware that they may need a new moulage and a different prosthesis if the soft tissue around the prosthesis undergoes changes, Dr. Huryn said. This may entail a procedure to redo the flaps for placement of the prosthesis.

The Future

Future developments in the field will come from tissue engineering and 3D imaging with CAD/CAM technology, according to experts interviewed for this article.

The field is evolving. It may be possible someday to bioengineer more complicated structures than those we can produce now, for example, to encourage growth of new bone, blood vessels, and skin, Dr. Huryn suggested. The possibilities are mind-boggling.

©2009 The Triological Society