Nasal septum perforation (NSP) is defined as the communication between the two nasal cavities. The prevalence of NSP is estimated to 1.2 % in general population [1]. NSPs are classified according to their location and etiology. Depending on the location, they are divided into anterior (92 %), posterior and superior (<10 %) and according to the etiology classified as traumatic, inflammatory, autoimmune, neoplastic, secondary to drug abuse or iatrogenic [2], [3].
Many of them may remain asymptomatic, especially small sized perforations, which are located posteriorly or superiorly [3]. These perforations are managed successfully by using conservative measures such as douching and ointment application [3], [4]. However, even the small NSP could present with symptoms such as epistaxis, crusting, obstruction and pain [3]. Surgical closure, endonasally or with an open rhinoplasty approach, can be performed in small or medium sized perforations [5]. Patients who are not good surgical candidates, may benefit from a nasal prosthesis (septal button) [5].
Three-dimensional printing (3DP) was first used in engineering in the 1980s, ever since it has been implemented in many fields of medicine, including rhinology [6].
The aim of this study is to review the literature, relevant to the utilization of 3-D printing (3-DP) technology for the production of custom-made septal buttons for NSP treatment.
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