Anaplastology

Anaplastology is a branch of medicine that specializes in the prosthetic rehabilitation of an absent, disfigured or malformed anatomically critical location of the face or body. The field of anaplastology is a synthesis of art and science, requiring both artistic and medical understanding.

History

The term "anaplastology" was first coined in the 1980s by Walter Spohn, a pioneer in the field. The discipline has its roots in maxillofacial prosthetics, a subspecialty of prosthodontics, and has evolved to include a wide range of prosthetic applications.

Scope

Anaplastologists create prostheses for a variety of patients, including those who have lost parts of their body due to cancer, trauma, or congenital defects. Common prostheses include artificial eyes, ears, noses, breasts, and fingers.

Process

The process of creating a prosthesis involves several steps. First, an impression of the affected area is taken, usually using a silicone mold. This mold is then used to create a wax model of the prosthesis, which is refined until it matches the patient's anatomy as closely as possible. The model is then used to create the final prosthesis, which is typically made of medical-grade silicone, acrylic, or other materials. The prosthesis is then painted to match the patient's skin tone and features.

Training and Certification

Anaplastologists typically have a background in art or science, and many have advanced degrees in medical illustration, biomedical or materials science. In the United States, certification is offered by the Board for Certification in Clinical Anaplastology (BCCA), which requires candidates to pass an examination and complete a minimum of 1000 hours of clinical practice.

See Also

• Prosthesis
• Maxillofacial Prosthetics
• Medical Illustration