Minimally Invasive Screw Fixation of Unstable Pelvic Fractures Using the “Blunt End” Kirschner Wire Technique Assisted by 3D Printed External Template

Abstract

Objective This study aimed to determine the accuracy and safety of the “blunt end” Kirschner wire (KW) technique for the minimally invasive treatment of unstable pelvic fractures with the assistance of a 3D printed external template. Methods Clinical data of 28 patients with unstable pelvic fractures between January 2016 and January 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. There were 6 cases of B1, 10 of B2, 8 of C1, and 4 of C2 fractures, all of which received surgical treatment. The “blunt end” KW technique with a 3D template was adopted for the minimally invasive placement of the iliosacral (IS) or superior ramus screws. The number of intraoperative fluoroscopies, surgical time, and complications were recorded. Postoperative reduction was assessed using the Matta criteria, and the Majeed score system was used to evaluate postoperative functional recovery. Results The average number of fluoroscopies was 35 per patient, and the average surgical time was 85.2 min. A total of 19 S1 and 28 S2 IS screws were inserted. Eleven antegrade superior ramus screws and 4 retrograde screws were placed in 11 patients, and anterior subcutaneous internal fixation (INFIX) was used to fix the anterior pelvic ring in 17 patients. All patients were followed up for an average of 18 months. Postoperative reduction was evaluated by Matta's criteria: excellent in 16 cases, good in 9 cases, and fair in 3 cases. The Majeed score was used in the last follow-up to evaluate functional recovery: excellent in 13 cases, good in 10 cases, fair in 4 cases, and poor in 1 case. There were no cases of operative vascular injury. Conclusion The “blunt end” KW technique with a 3D printed external template is a safe and effective method for the placement of IS and superior ramus screws in unstable pelvic fractures with minimized surgical duration and radiation exposure.

Clinical applications and prospects of 3D printing guide templates in orthopaedics

“… 2019 Chen K et al. [ 143 ] Biomed Res Int 28 “Blunt end” Kirschner wire (KW) insertion for unstable pelvic fractures The “blunt end” KW technique with a 3D printed external template is a safe and effective method. 2018 Chen Y et al.…”

Sacral Osteotomy Combined With Lumbopelvic Distraction Osteosynthesis in the Treatment of Malunion or Nonunion of Vertically Displaced Pelvic Fractures

“…With the promotion and popularization of early emergency treatment and reconstruction techniques for pelvic fractures, the success rate concerning early management of pelvic fractures has prominently improved, and most displaced unstable pelvic fractures can be reduced and xed early [10]. However, some severe pelvic fractures do not qualify for early reconstruction due to the need for early rescue for life-threatening massive bleeding and associated injuries [3,11]. On the one hand, some doctors lack an understanding of the degree of pelvic instability and are unable to apply correct and adequate vector forces to reduce and stabilize the fractures.…”

Does 3D-Assisted Operative Treatment of Pelvic Ring Injuries Improve Patient Outcome?—A Systematic Review of the Literature

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