Publication trends and knowledge mapping in 3D printing in orthopaedics

Three-dimensional Printing Technology in Orthopaedics

Three-dimensional (3-D) printing technology is affecting how orthopaedic surgeries are planned and executed. Like many innovations, 3-D printers are becoming smaller, more affordable, and more accessible. Free access to open-source 3-D imaging software has also made clinical implementation of this technology widely feasible. Within the last decade, 3-D printing advancements have improved the way orthopaedic surgeons can approach both common and complex cases. Advanced imaging studies can be used to create musculoskeletal models, which can then be used to create custom orthopaedic guides and instruments. Similarly, 3-D printing is being applied to improve the field of biologic therapies in orthopaedics. Application of 3-D printing technology has been associated with important improvements in education, preoperative planning, surgical care, and patient-specific devices and treatments. Improvements in cost-effectiveness, access, and usability of 3-D printing technology have made it possible for orthopaedic surgeons to use this powerful tool using desktop 3-D printers in their clinic or office. The types of printers and materials available to print are constantly expanding, but many of the basic 3-D printing principles persist throughout these advances in the field. A clear understanding of this technology is important to the clinical implementation of 3-D printing for current and future practice of orthopaedic care.

Virtual preoperative planning and 3D printing are valuable for the management of complex orthopaedic trauma

PURPOSE

The technology of 3D printing (3DP) exists for quite some time, but it is still not utilized to its full potential in the field of orthopaedics and traumatology, such as underestimating its worth in virtual preoperative planning (VPP) and designing various models, templates, and jigs. It can be a significant tool in the reduction of surgical morbidity and better surgical outcome avoiding various associated complications.

METHODS

An observational study was done including 91 cases of complex trauma presented in our institution requiring operative fixation. Virtual preoperative planning and 3DP were used in the management of these fractures. Surgeons managing these cases were given a set of questionnaire and responses were recorded and assessed as a quantitative data.

RESULTS

In all the 91 cases, where VPP and 3DP were used, the surgeons were satisfied with the outcome which they got intraoperatively and postoperatively. Surgical time was reduced, with a better outcome. Three dimensional models of complex fracture were helpful in understanding the anatomy and sketching out the plans for optimum reduction and fixation. The average score of the questionnaire was 4.5, out of a maximum of 6, suggesting a positive role of 3DP in orthopaedics.

CONCLUSION

3DP is useful in complex trauma management by accurate reduction and placement of implants, reduction of surgical time and with a better outcome. Although there is an initial learning curve to understand and execute the VPP and 3DP, these become easier with practice and experience.

The importance of teaching clinical anatomy in surgical skills education: Spare the patient, use a sim!

Anatomical knowledge is a key tenet in graduate medical and surgical education. Classically, these principles are taught in the operating room during live surgical experience. This puts both the learner and the patient at a disadvantage due to environment, time, and safety constraints. Educational adjuncts such as cadaveric courses and surgical skills didactics have been shown to improve resident confidence and proficiency in both anatomical knowledge and surgical techniques. However, the cost-effectiveness of these courses is a limiting factor and in many cases prevents implementation within institutional training programs. Anatomical simulation in the form of "desktop" three-dimensional (3D) printing provides a cost-effective adjunct while maintaining educational value. This article describes the anatomical and patient-centered approach that led to the establishment of our institution's 3D printing laboratory for anatomical and procedural education. Clin. Anat. 32:124-127, 2019. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Applications of three-dimensional printing in orbital diseases and disorders

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To comprehensively review the applications of advanced three-dimensional printing technology in the management of orbital abnormalities.

RECENT FINDINGS

Three-dimensional printing has added value in the preoperative planning and manufacturing of patient-specific implants and surgical guides in the reconstruction of orbital trauma, congenital defects and tumor resection. In view of the costs and time, it is reserved as strategy for large and complex craniofacial cases, in particular those including the bony contour. There is anecdotal evidence of a benefit of three-dimensional printing in the manufacturing of prostheses for the exenterated and anophthalmic socket, and in the fabrication of patient-specific boluses, applicators and shielding devices for orbital radiation therapy. In addition, three-dimensional printed healthy and diseased orbits as phantom tangible models may augment the teaching and learning process of orbital surgery.

SUMMARY

Three-dimensional printing allows precision treatment tailored to the unique orbital anatomy of the patient. Advancement in technology and further research are required to support its wider use in orbital clinical practice.