Creating Three-dimensional Printed Models of Acetabular Fractures for Use as Educational Tools

Abstract

Acetabular fractures are frequently encountered in some clinical practices, and the precise classification of these fractures greatly influences treatments and outcomes. The authors identified the need for an educational aid when teaching acetabular fracture classifications, given the complex spatial anatomy and the nonintuitive classification system that is commonly used. Three-dimensional ( 3D three-dimensional ) printing is an evolving technique that has applications as an educational aid, providing the student with a tangible object to interact with and learn from. In this article, the authors review their experience creating 3D three-dimensional printed models of the hip for educational purposes. Their goal was to create 3D three-dimensional printed models for use as educational aids when teaching acetabular fracture classifications. Complex cases involving a combination of fracture types, subtle nondisplaced fractures, and/or fractures with associated osteopenia or artifacts were excluded. The selected computed tomographic (CT) scans were loaded into a medical 3D three-dimensional volume-rendering program, and a 3D three-dimensional volumetric model was created. Standard Tessellation Language ( STL Standard Tessellation Language ) files were then exported to STL Standard Tessellation Language model-editing software and edited to retain only the involved hemipelvis. In some cases, the proximal femur and ipsilateral hemisacrum may be included to emphasize hip alignment or disruption of the force transfer. Displaced fracture fragments can be printed as separate segments or a single unit after the addition of struts. Printing was performed by using an additive manufacturing principle, with approximately 36-48 hours needed for printing, postprocessing, and drying. The cost to print a 1:1 scale model was approximately $100-$200, depending on the amount of plastic material used. These models can then be painted according to the two-column theory regarding acetabular fractures. RSNA, 2017.

The Value of 3D Printed Models in Understanding Acetabular Fractures

“…However, these models were standard pelvic models on which fracture patterns were created by using an oscillating saw. Last year, Manganaro et al 15 concluded that patient-specific 3D printed models were promising educational tools for teaching and improving learner confidence in using the Judet-Letournel classification system. Furthermore, a couple of case series is available in which it was concluded that 3D printing can be of added value in precontouring plates for acetabular fractures.…”

Evaluation of the clinical efficacy of 3D Printing technology assisted surgery combined with early postoperative comprehensive rehabilitation in the treatment of Senile Intertrochanteric Fractures

“…Accurate sample production and reliable quantitative analysis of trabeculae between individuals can be realized with the aid of computer tomography and 3D equipment, thus providing a more objective method for better anatomical reduction. 14 Preoperative evaluation and pre-surgical operation using the 3D printing model 15 is conducive to confirming the sequence of reduction and fixation, determining the quality of reduction, shortening the duration of surgery and minimizing the difficulty of surgery. 16 It is also believed by Chen et al that the pre-experiment of the 3D printing template is conducive to the accurate placement of the intramedullary needle during surgery.…”

Traditional versus mirror three-dimensional printing technology for isolated acetabular fractures: a retrospective study with a median follow-up of 25 months

“…3,11 Undeniably, surgeons may determine the approximate location of the fractures based on their previous experience. 11,21 However, it is difficult to obtain the full details of the fracture (the direction and degree of fracture displacement) based on previous techniques. 1,2,4 The recent emergence of 3D printing technology may be beneficial for surgeons.…”