Using 3D-printed Patient-optimized Surgical Tools (3D POST) for Complex Hip and Knee Arthroplasty

Abstract

Planning is a key step in all surgeries. Well-planned cases have better outcomes than the unplanned ones. The conventional planning used to be done on radiographs and other imaging. Three-dimensional (3D) printing using additive manufacturing process has taken this a step further. The process involves converting the radiographic digital formats into machine-printable format. The three-dimensional model is typically made of a plastic material that allows surgical simulation. In complex arthroplasty, especially those such as revision scenarios or difficult primary cases such as dysplastic hips, protrusio, fused, or posttraumatic arthritic hips, these models serve as an invaluable tool in planning the surgery. They help reduce inventory by facilitating optimal implant and instrument ordering, and also serve as intraoperative referencing. By performing surgical simulations preoperatively, the surgeons can rehearse their surgical steps and also decide upon the implant type and accurate implant placements.