In this study, the similarity and the reliability of the simulation method of the 3-dimensional solid biomodel (anatomic replication) of a skeletal unit obtained by computerized tomography (CT) and the stereolithography method was investigated. 1mm CT sections of a mandible of a completely dentate girl who died at the age of 13 were used. The digital data of mandibular bone were reconstructed with special software on a virtual basis 3-dimensionally. This 3D virtual biomodel was then transformed into a 3D solid biomodel with liquid resin polymerization by stereolithography appliance (SLA). Using electronic numerical caliber compass, 10 skeletal and 7 dental (a total of 17) linear measurements were made on the skeletal unit and solid biomodel. Data obtained were evaluated statistically using the correlation analysis, intraclass correlation coefficient, matching t test and % variation analysis. All the skeletal parameters were copied within the 95 % reliability range. 3 dental parameters were out of the 95 % reliability range while 4 dental parameters were simulated within the 95 % reliability range. The solid 3D biomodel obtained as a result of this study can be utilized safely in the treatment planning of craniofacial surgery and implantology while it is not thought to provide the sensitivity required for the fabrication of fixed or removable dental prostheses and orthognathic surgical splint yet.

Keywords: Stereolithography, 3D biomodeling, Dimensional sensitivity, Rapid prototyping