The purpose of this project was to use 3D printing technology to make inexpensive mouth splints for patients with face burns. This type of burn can significantly reduce the patient’s ability to open their mouth, along with other effects, particularly on their diet and speech. Before, mouth splints were much more expensive, and patients were often limited in how much they could open their mouths.

At Villa Medica Rehabilitation Hospital, we used custom 3D splints with 7 patients and compiled the results for 4 of them. In a short period of time, we found that the 4 patients saw major improvements in their ability to open their mouths vertically and horizontally and in their overall oral function, using results from the mouth impairment and disability assessment (MIDA) questionnaire. For the other 3 people still wearing the splint, they are seeing improvements.

Two patients who used other types of splints in the past said they prefer the 3D model because it was more comfortable and allowed them to open their mouths wider vertically, which meant they were able to eat food they hadn’t had since they were burned. One patient didn’t need reconstruction surgery after wearing the mouth splint for 3 months.

The 3D mouth splints cost about $3 each to make and seem to have better results than other more expensive devices. This new mouth splint will have a direct impact on the quality of the lives of burn survivors.

Project submitted by:

Zoë Edger-Lacoursière, Occupational Therapist

Contributors:

Guylaine Bilodeau, GB-PAMI Program Manager
Noémie Germain, Physiotherapist
Thomas Gagnon, Physiotherapist
Nathalie Gauthier, Psysiotherapy technician
Ingrid Malo-Leclerc, Occupational therapist
Simon Lacharité-Harbec, Occupational therapist
Zoé Edger Lacoursière, Occupational therapist, PhD (c)
Valérie Calva, Occupational therapist
Bernadette Nedelec, PhD, Mcgill Professor
Gregory Payet, Kinesiotherapist
Victorine La bonté, Occupational therapist
Danielle Shashoua, physiotherapist