Skull Replication using Silicon Impression Material for Forensic Facial Reconstruction Procedure

Abstract

Skull replication or obtaining a skull replica is an important step during forensic facial reconstruction or any other investigative procedure. When working on the original skull, there is a possibility of fracture of the delicate bones or damage to other structures. Replicating a skull allows us to preserve the original, study the skull during the entire investigative procedure, and leave a record of the specimen. The duplication of the skull can be done with impression materials like alginate, silicon and molding with gypsum or plaster of Paris. With the advancement of technology, CT scan, CBCT, 3D scanning, and 3D printing can aid in a better and more accurate replica of the skull and also without touching or tampering with the skull. But in cases where such a facility is not available, replication is made manually with impression materials. In this study, the skull duplication process is systematically prepared in a few phases using silicon impression material.