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Three-Dimensional Computer-Aided Design Modeling and Printing for Accurate Toe-to-Hand Transplantation
Huazhu Wang1, Zhisheng Zhang1, Jianyong Zhao1
1Department of Hand Surgery, Cangzhou Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine of Hebei, Cangzhou, China.
The Journal of Hand Surgery
|January 11, 2022
Summary
Three-dimensional printing enhances toe-to-hand transplantation by improving accuracy and reducing donor foot issues. This innovative approach offers better outcomes for patients needing reconstructive surgery.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Reconstructive Microsurgery
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Toe-to-hand transplantation is a complex reconstructive procedure.
- Traditional methods may face challenges in achieving optimal geometric fit and minimizing donor site morbidity.
- Advancements in 3D modeling offer potential solutions for improving surgical precision.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of 3D printing technology in guiding bone and soft tissue modeling for toe-to-hand transplantation.
- To compare outcomes between patients who underwent 3D-assisted transplantation and those who did not.
Main Methods:
- 31 patients (Group A) underwent 3D-assisted toe-to-hand transplantation, involving CT scans and 3D models for flap design.
- 35 patients (Group B) underwent traditional toe-to-hand transplantation without 3D modeling.
- Foot Function Index (FFI) was used to assess donor foot morbidity.
Main Results:
- Group A showed a significantly lower mean FFI (5) compared to Group B (17), indicating reduced donor foot morbidity.
- Follow-up duration was comparable between groups (26 months for Group A, 27 months for Group B).
Conclusions:
- 3D computer-aided modeling and printing provide geometric accuracy in toe-to-hand transplantation.
- This technology may reduce donor foot morbidity through precise flap design and harvesting.
