Computer-Aided High Tibial Osteotomy-A Comparative Study of Commonly Used 3D Printing Technology and Navigation...

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Biomedical Engineering
• Medical Device Technology

Background:

• High tibial osteotomy (HTO) is crucial for knee condition management, potentially delaying total knee replacement.
• Accurate HTO execution preserves joint function and improves patient quality of life.
• Evaluating assistive technologies for HTO is vital for optimizing surgical outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of different 3D printing techniques and a navigation system in assisting high tibial osteotomy (HTO).
• To assess parameters including planning time, manufacturing time, material cost, operation time, and accuracy.
• To determine the optimal assistive technology for enhancing HTO surgical precision.

Main Methods:

• Tibial saw-bones were utilized as models for surgical guide and navigation system application.
• Six key parameters were quantitatively evaluated: planning, manufacturing, delivery, material cost, operation time, and accuracy.
• Statistical analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA and t-tests to compare the different techniques.

Main Results:

• Metal surgical guides demonstrated the highest accuracy (mean angle difference of 2.4°).
• Metal guides also required the longest operation time (mean 9.75 min) compared to other methods.
• Accuracy differences were linked to material rigidity, melting point, and incision precision.

Conclusions:

• Metal surgical guides are recommended for HTO assistance due to superior accuracy and acceptable operation times.
• Findings guide orthopedic surgeons in selecting optimal tools to improve mechanical axis alignment and patient quality of life post-HTO.
• This research provides valuable insights for advancing surgical planning and execution in knee osteotomy.