Engineering Patient Specific Implants for Laryngeal Cancer Treatment

The Larynx plays a pivotal role in our ability to breathe and to speak. It is in our best interest to continue improving the status of tissue regeneration concerning the larynx so that patient voice quality of life can be less hindered in the face of laryngeal cancers and diseases. Modern technology can allow us to use CT scans for both diagnosis and treatment. This medical imaging can be converted into three-dimensional patient specific models that are actualized through 3D printing. These implants improve upon the current state of the art because they can be produced in a timely manner, are developed with materials and methods ensuring their biocompatibility, and follow architectures and geometries best suited for the patient to improve their voice quality of life. Additionally they should be able to allow patient speech in the case of partial laryngectomies where the arytenoid has been removed by acting as a permanent vocal fold This treatment process for laryngectomies aligns itself with personalized medicine by targeting its geometry based on that of the patient. Technologies and manufacturing processes utilized to produce them are accessible and could all be used within the clinical space. The life-saving implant required for the laryngectomy healing and recovery process can be ready to implant for the patient within a few days of imaging them.