Enabling Technology in Fracture Surgery: State of the Art

Area of Science:

• Orthopaedic Surgery
• Medical Imaging
• Digital Health Technologies

Background:

• Three-dimensional (3D) printing and virtual modeling, derived from computed tomographic (CT) scans, aid surgeons in visualizing anatomy and planning surgical approaches.
• Navigation systems offer intraoperative 3D anatomical mapping, proving effective for percutaneous screw placement in orthopaedic trauma.
• Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) are emerging applications in orthopaedic trauma, with AR showing potential for intraoperative visualization of implant placement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current applications and potential benefits of advanced digital technologies in orthopaedic trauma surgery.
• To highlight the role of 3D printing, navigation systems, AR/VR, and 3D-printed implants in improving surgical planning and outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on 3D printing, virtual modeling, navigation systems, augmented reality, virtual reality, and 3D-printed implants in orthopaedic trauma.
• Analysis of studies focusing on the efficacy of these technologies in surgical planning, intraoperative guidance, and patient outcomes.

Main Results:

• 3D printing and virtual modeling improve anatomical visualization, fracture understanding, surgical planning, and simulation of fixation.
• Navigation systems demonstrate efficacy in percutaneous screw placement using preoperative or intraoperative data.
• Augmented reality shows promise for intraoperative visualization of implant placement.
• Early studies on 3D-printed metal implants suggest efficacy in improving intraoperative measures and postoperative outcomes.

Conclusions:

• 3D printing, virtual modeling, navigation, AR/VR, and 3D-printed implants represent significant advancements in orthopaedic trauma care.
• These technologies offer enhanced visualization, planning, and potentially improved surgical precision and patient outcomes.