Enhancing perioperative planning: three-dimensional printing templating in orthopaedic surgery

Area of Science:

• Orthopaedic Surgery
• Biomedical Engineering
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Three-dimensional (3D) printing is transforming orthopaedic surgery by enabling the creation of patient-specific models, surgical guides, and implants.
• The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of 3D printing for localized solutions and the use of biocompatible materials to replicate bone complexity.
• This technology aids surgeons in planning and rehearsing complex procedures, improving outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To illustrate the application of 3D printing in the preoperative planning of a complex distal femur fracture.
• To demonstrate how 3D printing can enhance visualization and surgical strategy for intricate orthopaedic cases.

Main Methods:

• A 42-year-old female patient with a Gustilo-Anderson grade III-A distal femur fracture was evaluated.
• Three-dimensional printing was utilized for implant planning, contouring, and screw trajectory visualization.
• The 3D printing process took seven hours, contributing to a reduced operative time of two hours.

Main Results:

• Three-dimensional printing significantly improved the visualization of the complex fracture pattern compared to traditional 2D imaging.
• The use of 3D printed models led to reduced surgical time and enhanced precision in implant placement and screw trajectory.
• The patient experienced no complications during the one-month follow-up period.

Conclusions:

• Three-dimensional printing offers substantial benefits in orthopaedic surgery, including enhanced visualization, reduced operative time, and improved precision.
• Despite challenges such as cost and the need for specialized training, 3D printing holds significant potential for advancing orthopaedic surgical planning and execution.
• Further research is warranted to explore the long-term outcomes associated with 3D printing in orthopaedic applications.