Unilateral C1 split fracture osteosynthesis using a patient-specific three-dimensional-printed guide: Technique...

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Biomedical Engineering
• Neurosurgery

Background:

• Split-type C1 lateral mass fractures often exhibit progressive displacement, necessitating surgical intervention.
• Standard surgical techniques for C1 split fractures can be challenging due to fragment instability.
• Early surgical treatment is frequently recommended to prevent further displacement and complications.

Observation:

• A custom-designed, patient-specific 3D-printed guide plate was developed to aid in C1 lag screw placement.
• The guide plate was utilized in a 57-year-old female patient with a C1 lateral mass split fracture requiring primary osteosynthesis.
• The 3D-printed guide facilitated accurate intraoperative placement of a lag screw to secure both fracture fragments.

Findings:

• The use of the custom 3D-printed guide plate enabled precise lag screw insertion, achieving stable osteosynthesis.
• The surgical procedure was uneventful, with the patient discharged within 72 hours.
• Postoperative CT scans at 12 months demonstrated excellent fracture consolidation.

Implications:

• Patient-specific 3D-printed guides offer a safe, accurate, and cost-effective method for treating C1 lateral mass split fractures.
• This technology presents a viable alternative to intraoperative imaging and image-guided surgery systems.
• The approach may improve surgical outcomes and reduce healthcare costs for atlas fractures.