3d-Printed One-Third Tubular Plates in an Ankle Fracture Model: A Biomechanical Study.

Area of Science:

• Orthopaedic Surgery
• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science

Background:

• 3D printing is rapidly advancing in orthopaedic surgery.
• The clinical utility of 3D-printed orthopaedic implants requires further definition.
• This study investigates the biomechanical performance of 3D-printed plates in an ankle fracture model.

Purpose of the Study:

• To biomechanically evaluate 3D-printed one-third tubular plates made from carbon fiber-reinforced polylactic acid (CFR-PLA) and polycarbonate (PC).
• To compare the mechanical properties of these 3D-printed plates against traditional stainless-steel plates in a fibula fracture model.

Main Methods:

• One-third tubular plates were 3D-printed using CFR-PLA and PC materials.
• Plates were used to fix Weber B Sawbones fibula fracture models.
• Mechanical testing included lateral bending, torsion, and torsional failure analysis.

Main Results:

• Stainless-steel plates exhibited superior mechanical properties in valgus bending and torsional failure compared to 3D-printed plates.
• CFR-PLA 3D-printed plates demonstrated enhanced strength specifically in torsion testing.
• Statistical significance was noted, but clinical significance of property differences requires consideration.

Conclusions:

• 3D-printed implants, particularly CFR-PLA, may serve as a viable alternative for ankle fracture fixation.
• The biomechanical differences observed are likely not clinically significant, supporting potential future use.
• This research provides a foundation for further investigation into 3D-printed orthopaedic implants.