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Using Patient-Specific 3D-Printed C1-C2 Interfacet Spacers for the Treatment of Type 1 Basilar Invagination: A
Tim T Bui1, Alexander T Yahanda1, Karan Joseph1
1Department of Neurosurgery, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S Euclid Ave, Campus Box 8057, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
Biomimetics (Basel, Switzerland)
|June 25, 2025
Summary
Custom 3D printed implants successfully treated type 1 basilar invagination (BI) in a teen. This innovative approach provided distraction and stabilization, resolving spinal cord compression and improving symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Type 1 basilar invagination (BI) involves craniovertebral junction (CVJ) instability.
- Traditional treatment includes C1-C2 fusion; 3D printed custom implants (3DPIs) offer new solutions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report the first US case of using custom 3D printed interfacet spacers for type 1 BI.
- To demonstrate the efficacy of patient-specific 3DPIs in achieving distraction and stabilization.
Main Methods:
- A 15-year-old male with type 1 BI and complex C1-C2 anatomy was treated.
- Custom 3D printed C1-C2 interfacet spacers were designed and implanted within 14 days.
Main Results:
- Successful C1-C2 joint distraction, decompression, and stabilization were achieved.
- Postoperative imaging confirmed resolution of BI and canal stenosis.
- The patient showed improvement in myelopathic symptoms and remained neurologically stable.
Conclusions:
- Custom 3D printed interfacet spacers are effective for treating type 1 BI.
- This case highlights a streamlined workflow for pragmatic 3DPI design and manufacturing.
- Further research on long-term outcomes and workflow optimization is warranted.
