Assistant function of 3D printing technology in the repair of complex scapular fracture

LU Bing; XIAN Ai-ming; LIU Pan; WANG Yue

doi:10.3969/j.issn.2095-252X.2017.05.004

Abstract：Objective To investigate the clinical value of 3D printing technology in the treatment of complex scapular fracture. Methods Among the patients with complex scapular fractures adopted from January to December 2016, 6 patients were selected, and the models of scapular fractures were created by 3D printing technology. The operation plan, operation approach and reduction order were designed according to the 3D fracture models. The location, length and shape of the reconstruction plate could be ensured during the simulated operation, as well as the length and direction of screws. The results were compared with the actual operation results, and the operation time was recorded. Results All the 6 operations were successfully completed. During the operation, the selected plates, the number and length of screws and so on were the same as the plan of the simulated operation. And the fracture reductions were satisfactory according to the postoperative image data. All the patients were followed up for a mean period of 10 months ( range: 8 to 12 months ), and the excellent and good rate was 87%. Conclusions The plan can be developed before the operation and the operation procedure can be simulated in the treatment of complex scapular fracture by using 3D printing technology, which can shorten the operation time, improve the operation quality and lower the operation difficulty.