Anatomical reduction and precise internal fixation of intra-articular fractures of the distal radius with virtual X-ray and 3D printing

3D planning and patient specific instrumentation for intraarticular corrective osteotomy of trapeziometacarpal-, metacarpal and finger joints

Background

Intra-articular malunions of the finger can lead to deformity and loss of function and can be treated with intra-articular corrective osteotomies. The aim of this study was to evaluate radiographic joint congruency, feasibility and functional outcome of three-dimensional (3D) printed patient-specific instrumentation (PSI) for corrective osteotomies at the trapeziometacarpal and finger joints.

Methods

Computer-tomography (CT) scans were acquired preoperatively for standard 3D planning, which was followed by calculation of cutting planes and the design of individualized bone surface contact drilling, sawing and reposition guides. Follow-up CT scans and clinical examinations (range of motion, grip strength) were performed. Postoperative complications were documented and patient-reported outcome measurements were assessed (Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE) score, brief Michigan Hand Questionnaire (MHQ)).

Results

Ten patients (mean age 28.4 ± 12.8,range 13.8–51.3) years) were included with a mean follow-up of 21 ± 18 (3–59) months including seven osteotomies at the trapeziometacarpal or metacarpophalangeal joints and three at the proximal interphalangeal joint (PIP). All radiographic follow-up examinations showed the planned correction with good joint congruency and regular osseous consolidation. At the latest follow-up, the range of motion (ROM) increased and the average grip strength recovered to the level of the contralateral side. No postoperative complication was detected. The mean SANE score improved from 44 ± 23 (0–70) to 82 ± 12 (60–90) after a mean of 72 ± 20 (44–114) months. The mean postoperative brief MHQ was 92 ± 8 (71–98).

Conclusion

The use of 3D PSI in treating intra-articular malunions at the trapeziometacarpal and finger joints restored articular congruency accurately. ROM and grip strength improved postoperatively comparable to the healthy contralateral side and patient-reported outcome measures improved after medium-term follow-up.

A modified intrafocal pinning technique with three-dimensional planning to facilitate volar plating in dorsally comminuted AO/OTA C2 and C3 distal radius fractures

Backgrounds

Theaim of this study was to assess the efficacy of a modified intrafocal pinningtechnique with three-dimensional (3D) planning to facilitate volar plating in dorsally comminuted intra-articular distal radius fractures.

Methods

Intotal 35 AO/OTA type C2 and C3 fractures were finally included.The 3D digital model of the fracture was reconstructed based on preoperative computedtomographic (CT) images, with the displacement of the comminuted dorsalfragment and the intra-articular fragment analyzed for preoperative planning. During operation, amodified intrafocal pinning technique was applied percutaneously from thedorsal aspect of the radius to reduce the collapsed intra-articular fragmentfollowing volar plating. Adequate reduction was confirmed in all of patientsconsidering radial height, radial inclination and volar tilt in postoperativeradiographs.

Results

No significant fracture re-displacement wasobserved in most of the cases during a mean follow-up period of 17.4 months, exceptfor two patients withthe C3 fracture. All of the patients achieved adequate clinicalROMs at 12 months postoperatively, with a mean DASH score of 12.0. Most of the patients achievedan excellent (n = 21) or good (n = 12) Gartland and Werley wrist score.

Conclusions

Ourmodified intrafocal pinning technique with 3D planning contributes to a satisfactoryclinical and radiological outcome in dorsally comminuted intra-articular distalradius fractures fixed with a volar locking plate.

Trialregistration

Notapplicable because the design of the study is retrospective.