Insights and trends review: the role of three-dimensional technology in upper extremity surgery

Abstract

The use of three-dimensional (3-D) technology in upper extremity surgery has the potential to revolutionize the way that hand and upper limb procedures are planned and performed. 3-D technology can assist in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions, allowing virtual preoperative planning and surgical templating. 3-D printing can allow the production of patient-specific jigs, instruments and implants, allowing surgeons to plan and perform complex procedures with greater precision and accuracy. Previously, cost has been a barrier to the use of 3-D technology, which is now falling rapidly. This review article will discuss the current status of 3-D technology and printing, including its applications, ethics and challenges in hand and upper limb surgery. We have provided case examples to outline how clinicians can incorporate 3-D technology in their clinical practice for congenital deformities, management of acute fracture and malunion and arthroplasty.

Emerging technologies in hand surgery

“…Each article has been carefully written to give a balanced overview, listing the pros and cons of such technologies. In the article by Bodansky et al (2023), the reader is taken through a helpful journey to understand the process of acquiring 3D images, and printing when needed and also how to set up a 3-D service within a local hospital. Adult and paediatric case examples are demonstrated, and the surgeon is encouraged to explore these technologies and augment their practice, but not see them as replacement for surgical skill and decision-making.…”

“…Each article has been carefully written to give a balanced overview, listing the pros and cons of such technologies. In the article by Bodansky et al. (2023), the reader is taken through a helpful journey to understand the process of acquiring 3D images, and printing when needed and also how to set up a 3-D service within a local hospital.…”