Use of Three-dimensional Printing in Orthopaedic Surgical Planning

Abstract

Background:Three-dimensional (3D) printing is a technique based on overlapping layers of a material (eg, plastic, clay, and metal). The widespread implementation of 3D printers has resulted in a notable increase in use. Fields such as construction, engineering, and medicine benefit from this technique.Aim:The use of 3D printed scale models permits better surgical planning and results.Methods:The models were created based on CT images of seven patients (age range, 5 to 61 years) with different pathologies who were candidates for surgery.Results:Surgical time decreased as a result of detailed surgical planning with printed models. This technique also was associated with a decrease in bleeding, a reduction in the amount of anesthesia required, and greater precision. In some patients, a change in surgical strategy was noted, thus allowing for a reduction in the number of surgeries and the aggressiveness of surgery. Finally, the preoperative practice (virtual and physical osteotomies using cutting tools) that was performed in two cases allowed the surgeon to evaluate the different approach alternatives and establish the best strategy.Conclusions:The use of 3D–printed anatomic models has improved surgical planning, especially for patients in whom the conventional techniques are insufficient for establishing a proper strategy. The extra information provided by 3D–printed models can lead to a better intervention strategy, which is beneficial for patients because it decreases the risks, procedure times, and recovery times.

Three-dimensional Printing in Spine Surgery: Protocol of a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

“…A retrospective study compared 3DP template-assisted screw placement and the C-arm based navigation-assisted screw placement group of C2 Pedicle or Pars Screw Placement shows that 3D printing assisted surgery and traditional surgery are similar in terms of safety and clinical superiority, but the accuracy of surgical screw implantation with the assistance of 3D printing is higher [14]. The similar result was also con rmed in other studies [15,16].…”

A review of the manufacturing process and infection rate of 3D-printed models and guides sterilized by hydrogen peroxide plasma and utilized intra-operatively

“…Advances in 3D printing has allowed for this technology to become increasingly prevalent across medical disciplines. In the context of facilitating surgical management, 3D-printed models can be an essential component of both pre-operative planning as well as intra-operative whilst guides can be created to direct osteotomies as well as screw entry sites [1].…”

Computational and Image Processing Methods for Analysis and Automation of Anatomical Alignment and Joint Spacing in Reconstructive Surgery

“…The use of computerized methods to create implants and analyze joint spacing is a developing field, with most current methods focusing on the design of custom implants [13][14][15]. Harrysson et al were able to create significantly more patient-specific knee replacement parts than conventional generalized molds, leading to improved stress distribution and fewer postoperative gait changes.…”