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Patient-specific scaphoid prosthesis: surgical technique
Philipp Honigmann1,2, Joris Oonk3, Johannes Dobbe3,4
1Hand and Peripheral Nerve Surgery, Department of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery, Kantonsspital Baselland, Bruderholz, Laufen, Liestal, Switzerland. philipp.honigmann@unibas.ch.
Archives of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery
|December 16, 2024
Summary
Scaphoid replacement with patient-specific prostheses offers a solution for non-reconstructable scaphoid bone injuries. This technique aims to restore wrist stability, carpal alignment, and motion, improving patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Biomedical Engineering
- Hand Surgery
Background:
- The scaphoid bone is critical for wrist function, including stability, force transmission, and kinematics.
- Non-reconstructable scaphoid injuries pose challenges to preserving wrist function.
- Historically, scaphoid replacement has evolved, with recent advancements enhancing its efficacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a refined technique for scaphoid replacement using patient-specific prostheses.
- To reconstruct intrinsic and extrinsic ligaments for optimal wrist stability and mobility.
- To address the limitations of non-reconstructable scaphoid bone cases.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing patient-specific implant design based on advanced imaging.
- Employing additive manufacturing (3D printing) for prosthesis creation.
- Performing surgical reconstruction of intrinsic and extrinsic wrist ligaments.
Main Results:
- Successful restoration of carpal alignment and motion in cases of non-reconstructable scaphoid bone.
- Achieved optimal wrist stability and mobility through prosthesis and ligament reconstruction.
- Demonstrated the benefit of integrating modern technologies in orthopedic implants.
Conclusions:
- Patient-specific scaphoid replacement is a viable treatment for non-reconstructable scaphoid bone injuries.
- The presented technique effectively restores wrist function, stability, and mobility.
- Advancements in technology significantly improve outcomes for scaphoid replacement surgery.

