Complete sternal cleft individualized repair using a 3D-printed polyether ether ketone model: a case report

Abstract

Background Bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) is a common anatomical variation that the aortic valve possesses two functional cusps. Sternal cleft is a rare congenital malformation which is caused by failed fusion of sternal bones. Early surgical repair is advised, otherwise, alternative surgical techniques should be performed. Due to their biocompatibility and elasticity, 3D-printed polyether ether ketone (PEEK) implants can be used. Complete sternal cleft coexistence with BAV is infrequent. Case Summary A 49-year-old man with a 6-month history of paroxysmal shortness of breath (SOB) and exertional chest tightness presented to our hospital. The man was diagnosed with BAV with severe aortic valve regurgitation (AR) and a complete sternal cleft. He underwent aortic valve replacement surgery used the bovine pericardial aortic valve. Concurrently, a 3D-printed PEEK implant surgery was performed to address the sternal cleft. The patient's post-operative recovery was uneventful. Discussion In this case, 3D-printed PEEK implants was used for high biocompatibility and elastic modulus. However, because PEEK material inherently lacks biological activity, enhancing this aspect remains a focal point of clinical research.