title: [Using laser scanning to 3-D reconstruct an ear model].
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The purpose of the study was to get the ear data from a laser scanning so that a. STL file can be promoted though which a 3-d ear reconstruction can be held.
  
  
  METHODS
  A laser scanning manufactured by France was used to get the data of an auricular model, then the data was turned into a. STL file so that a 3-d image of ear was got.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The result shows that a 3-d ear reconstructed image can be got quickly and precisely. The digital image shows that the dimension, shape and long axis of the ear is really similar to the ear model.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  This study suggests that laser scanning is helpful and effective to get the data of ear. Through this method, it makes it possible to be ready for the technique of rapid prototyping and provide a new, convenient, effective and safe method to auricular prosthesis.
authors.affiliation: Department of Prosthodontics, School of Stomatology, Shanghai Second Medical University, Shanghai 200011, China.
authors.forename: Ting
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Jiao
authors.forename: Fu-qiang
authors.initials: FQ
authors.lastname: Zhang
authors.forename: Ming
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Ye
authors.forename: Cheng-tao
authors.initials: CT
authors.lastname: Wang
mesh_terms: D004431:Ear, External; D006801:Humans; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional; D007834:Lasers; D008953:Models, Anatomic; D011474:Prosthesis Design