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Custom Implants and Patient-Specific Instrumentation in Total Shoulder Arthroplasty
Jennifer Kurowicki1, William E Harkin, Thomas E Moran
1From the Department of Orthopaedics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH (Kurowicki), and the Rush University Medical Center, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Chicago, IL (Harkin, Moran, and Garrigues).
The Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
|December 3, 2025
Summary
Three-dimensional printing enables patient-specific instrumentation and custom implants for total shoulder arthroplasty. These tailored solutions address complex anatomy and improve outcomes in challenging cases.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Biomedical Engineering
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Primary and revision total shoulder arthroplasty present challenges due to complex patient anatomy and bone deformities.
- Standard implants may not adequately address unique anatomical variations, leading to surgical difficulties.
- Advancements in technology are crucial for improving reconstructive procedures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the principles, indications, and clinical outcomes of using patient-specific instrumentation (PSI) and custom implants in total shoulder arthroplasty.
- To highlight how 3D printing facilitates personalized surgical solutions.
- To provide a comprehensive overview for surgeons considering these advanced techniques.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on 3D printing applications in shoulder arthroplasty.
- Analysis of case studies and clinical data regarding PSI and custom implants.
- Discussion of the technological aspects and surgical planning involved.
Main Results:
- Patient-specific instrumentation and custom implants offer tailored fit for complex anatomy.
- These technologies can potentially improve implant positioning and biomechanical restoration.
- Early clinical outcomes suggest favorable results in addressing challenging deformities.
Conclusions:
- Three-dimensional printing is revolutionizing total shoulder arthroplasty by enabling personalized surgical tools and implants.
- PSI and custom implants provide viable solutions for patients with complex anatomy and osseous deformity.
- Further research and long-term studies are warranted to fully elucidate the benefits and long-term efficacy.
