Video Gallery

3D Mirror Imaging Models and Precontoured Plates for Acetabular Fractures. Do It Yourself

February 19, 2016

Contributors: Jose Manuel Rojo-Manaute, MD, PhD; Javier Vaquero-Martin, MD, PhD; Pablo Gil Martínez Sr; José María Martínez Gómiz Sr, MD; Ruben Perez-Mananes, MD, PhD; Francisco Chana Rodríguez, MD, PhD; Francisco Chana Rodríguez, MD, PhD

Introduction: Preoperative three-dimensional modeling allows for more effective diagnosis of acetabular fractures and simulates the surgical procedure for the management of such fractures. Objectives: The goal of this video is to show a new methodology for applying three-dimensional technology via do-it-yourself processing. Methods: The video discusses 10 acetabular fractures for which preoperative planning was performed using premolding synthesis plates on a three-dimensionally printed mold based on CT scans. After obtaining the printed hemipelvis, plate precontouring was performed using the templates available, adapting their shape to the anatomic contours. Results: The templates were contoured over the plastic model. These plate models were then reproduced in the final plates with the aid of standard plate-benders (mean time, 25 min). The acrylonitrile butadiene styrene plastic consumption for printing the model was 295 g; therefore, the model was printed for less than 12 Euros. No intraoperative modifications were required. Postoperative CT scans showed anatomic reduction without gaps between the plates and the acetabular surface. Conclusions: The use of preoperative three-dimensional mirror imaging models of the opposite hemipelvis and precontouring plates over the mold allows surgeons to effectively achieve a predefined surgical objective and decrease inherent risks.