Disruptive

Anaplastology has benefited greatly from the talents of those with artistic talent. Initially called medical sculpture, the skills of sculptors and painters made it possible for disfigured people, to wear almost indistinguishable prostheses. I was once a member of the American Association of Medical Sculptors, which later became the American Association of Anaplastologists. We could lay claim to the honor of belonging, to the original line of the first-ever medical sculptors, who created life-like anatomical models for the Specola museum. I am a qualified sculptor, and preferred in fifty-three years of practice, to be called a medical sculptor. However, to the best of my knowledge, the majority of people who practice Anaplastology around the world, are artists.

Replicating the defect and the contralateral anatomy is the first step of the process, as you probably already know. After the prototype is designed to fit exactly on the defective remnant anatomy, a negative mold is made. Finally, silicone polymer with intrinsic pigments is cast then finished and toned externally with suitable skin tone shades. The end result was traditionally retained by adhesive. In the 1960s other materials for the final product, were replaced by silicone polymers. Later the sharp eye of the artist in judging skin tones was replaced by the spectrophotometer. Retention alternatives arrived in the form of bar and clip, then later still with osseointegrated implants.

The digital era introduced serious disruptive technology, in the form of scanners and 3D printers. This enables jumping the skill set of creating the prototype. After that stage one yet had to use the conventional way of molding and casting. Now recently the advent of 3D printing silicone polymers has made its debut. Whilst we applaud the progress of digital technology in Anaplastology, let us not forget the realities of those who need our services. And it is very important to stand on firm ground even with our heads in the clouds.

Recently, professionals touting the glories of the disruptive digital technology in Anaplastology services, have been demeaning the role of the traditional path of Anaplastologists. Slogans like ring out the old and ring in the new smack of unprofessional behavior. Cheering and chest-thumping, that at last one can jump into a profession, that is proximal but outside their scope of service. The possibility of jumping the vital skill set excites them. This is not professional behavior.

From the perspective of over half a century of practicing Anaplastology, I can assure you, that at this moment you are standing on the threshold. The path forward is not as easy as is being touted. However, I will and must leave you to experience yourself, if at all you have the time to dedicate, to creating life-like prosthetic restorations. Else, you will surely become dependent on another highly skilled technician, namely the CAD specialist.

Meanwhile, highly skilled clinical Anaplastologist around the world will provide the service in a more personal and emphatic way. You may be surprised at the clinical experience of the highly skill Anaplastologists around the world. Hold their hand as you tread into their profession.