Comparing the effectiveness of 3D printing technology in the treatment of clavicular fracture between surgeons with different experiences

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to examine the use of 3D printing technology to treat clavicular fractures by skilled and inexperienced surgeons. Methods A total of 80 patients with clavicle fractures (from February 2017 to May 2021) were enrolled in this study. Patients were divided randomly into four groups: group A: Patients underwent low-dose CT scans, and 3D models were printed before inexperienced surgeons performed surgeries; group B: Standard-dose CT were taken, and 3D models were printed before experienced surgeons performed surgeries; group C and D: Standard-dose CT scans were taken in both groups, and the operations were performed differently by inexperienced (group C) and experienced (group D) surgeons. This study documented the operation time, blood loss, incision length, and the number of intraoperative fluoroscopies. Results No statistically significant differences were found in age, gender, fracture site, and fracture type (P value: 0.23–0.88). Group A showed shorter incision length and fewer intraoperative fluoroscopy times than groups C and D (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences in blood loss volume, incision length, and intraoperative fluoroscopy times between group A and group B (P value range: 0.11–0.28). The operation time of group A was no longer than those of groups C and D (P value range: 0.11 and 0.24). Conclusion The surgical effectiveness of inexperienced surgeons who applied 3D printing technology before clavicular fracture operation was better than those of inexperienced and experienced surgeons who did not use preoperative 3D printing technology.

3D printing-assisted surgery for the treatment of proximal clavicle fracture with ipsilateral acromioclavicular joint dislocation: a case description

“…Their findings illuminate the advantages provided by this innovation, including the ability to precisely select the optimal implant prior to surgery, effectively preempting potential complications, and significantly reducing surgical duration ( 27 ). Furthermore, 3D printing can enhance the complex clavicle fracture surgical proficiency of inexperienced surgeons ( 28 ). For the treatment of AC joint dislocation, the use of 3D printing had been reported to assist in selecting and pre-bending clavicle hook plates, thereby enabling precise reduction ( 12 , 13 ).…”

Application of a Low-cost, High-fidelity Proximal Phalangeal Dislocation Reduction Model for Clinician Training

“…21,22 There is a growing field in preoperative planning in orthopedic oncology, and orthopedic trauma surgery. [23][24][25]…”

3D printing technology combined with personalized plates for complex distal intra-articular fractures of the trimalleolar ankle

“…By 3D printing fracture models, patients and physicians can obtain more intuitive and three-dimensional fracture information, allowing for more comprehensive preoperative planning and simulation. Related studies also indicate that 3D printing technology-assisted fracture surgery, compared to traditional surgery, results in better surgical outcomes and higher satisfaction among both doctors and patients 20 – 22 . However, current 3D printing technology is primarily used for pre-shaping conventional plates, which can affect their strength and may lead to incomplete and unstable fixation of fracture fragments.…”