3D Printing as a Way of Integrating Mathematical Models in Arthroscopic Knee Surgery

Abstract

Our objective is to develop a novel method of approaching the arthroscopic treatment of osteochondral lesions within the knee joint by using mathematics as a way of understanding the geometry involved in the knee, both in normal and degenerated knee joint surfaces. Bone and cartilage lesions are frequent, whether as a result of trauma, degenerative pathology, vascular pathology (osteocondritis dissecans) or tumoral. In all cases, a defect can be repaired arthroscopically, if it has manageable dimensions and if the surgeon has the technological means and the necessary skills, through the use of grafts (autografts or allografts). Alternatively, a lesion that may be approached arthroscopically initially could prove to be too great for repair and may need a second intervention for reconstruction with an endoprosthesis. We aim to further deepen the surgeon�s understanding of this pathology, through the use of 3D technology as a way of representing the osteochondral defect. Thus, its dimensions and position may be better understood, and the surgical intervention may be better planned out, potentially resulting in a shorter operating time and an overall superior outcome for the patient, and even potentially diminishing the number of unnecessary surgeries performed.

Transforming the Management of Articular Fractures in the Foot: A Critical Examination of Current Methods and Future Directions: A Review

“…The advent of 3D printing technology, as explored by Temple [30] and Plavitu et al [31], is revolutionizing the creation of custom implants and surgical guides. This technology ensures a higher degree of precision in fracture management, adapting to the unique anatomical features of each patient.…”

The Role of Osteosynthesys Materials in the Etiopathology of Bone Malignant Tumors and Reconstruction Possibilities. Case report

“…These augments vary in size and shape, and in some cases may be custom made for a particularly challenging defect [8]. In order to evaluate the bone defect and decide on the type of augment to be used, a CT or MRI scan may be used as a source of visual information in order to create a 3D image of the defect [9][10][11], which may be 3D printed [12][13][14], giving the surgical team a better understanding of the area to be reconstructed [15].…”

Lateral Extraarticular Tenodesis in Combined ACL and ALL Reconstruction. Case presentation

“…This may be grafted, but for a deep understanding of the defect and the manner in which it influences the overall procedure we recommend the use of a 3D reconstruction technique based on the patients MRI or CT scans, which leads to the creation of a 3D printed model of the bone defects [17][18][19][20][21][22]. The 3D printing technology is mostly used in bone defect reconstruction; although recent developments suggest that it may be used in other areas as well, such as prosthetics, in conjunction with other innovative solutions [23].…”