Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 23, 2026
3D Planning and Printing of Patient Specific Implants for Reconstruction of Bony Defects
Published on: August 4, 2020
Postoperative infection rates with 3D-printed custom metallic cage implants comparable to traditional reconstruction
Katelyn E Parsons1, Andrew LoPolito1, Devika A Shenoy1
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.
Background:
Treatment of foot and ankle critical-sized defects (CSDs) remains a surgical challenge. Custom 3D-printed metallic implants have emerged as a promising solution, however current literature is limited. This study evaluated the incidence and associated factors of deep postoperative infection following custom cage implantation.
Methods:
A retrospective cohort study was conducted on 62 patients who underwent custom cage implant arthrodesis. Pre-, peri-, and postoperative variables were collected, with deep postoperative infection as the primary outcome.
Results:
Of 62 patients, 13 (21 %) developed deep postoperative infections at a median 957 days. Superficial wound breakdown was significantly associated with infection. History of ipsilateral foot and ankle infection, diabetes, smoking, and neuropathy were not significantly associated with infection.
Conclusion:
Infection rates after custom cage implantation were comparable to those of traditional CSD management methods. These findings support continued evaluation of custom cage implants and emphasize the importance of reducing postoperative infection risk.
Level Of Evidence:
III.
Related Concept Videos
01:10Ankle Joint
01:28Muscles of the Leg that Move the Foot and Toes
Anterior Compartment
The anterior compartment includes muscles that contribute to the dorsiflexion of the foot. This compartment houses the tibialis anterior, extensor hallucis longus, and extensor digitorum longus muscles....
02:32Bonding in Metals
02:37Metallic Solids
All metallic solids exhibit high thermal and electrical conductivity, metallic luster, and malleability....
03:06Alkali Metals
Table 1: Properties of the alkali metals
01:17The Thoracic Cage: Sternum
The sternum is the elongated bony structure on the anterior side of the thoracic cage. It consists of three parts: the manubrium, the body, and the xiphoid...