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Updated: Jul 13, 2025

3D Planning and Printing of Patient Specific Implants for Reconstruction of Bony Defects
Published on: August 4, 2020
The Use of Patient-Specific Implants for the Treatment of Upper Extremity Fractures
Sneha R Rao1, Gregory F Pereira1, Marc J Richard1
1Department of Orthopaedics, Duke University Medical Center, Box 3000, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
Abstract:
In this article, we discuss the use of three-dimensional (3-D) printed patient-specific implants in the management of upper extremity fractures. Traditional fracture fixation methods involve the use of standard-sized implants, which may not adequately address the needs of every patient, particularly those who have complications related to fracture nonunion or malunion and those who have significant bone loss. The benefits and limitations of this technology are also discussed, along with considerations for implementation in clinical practice. Overall, the use of 3-D printed patient-specific implants holds promise for improving the accuracy and efficacy of upper extremity fracture management.
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