Clinical progress of 3D printing technology in treatment of distal tibial epiphyseal fractures in adolescents / 局解手术学杂志

ABSTRACT

The distal tibial epiphyseal fractures is a common type of fracture in adolescents.The distal tibia is adjacent to the ankle joint,where the epiphysis is fragile and easily damaged when the fracture occurs,resulting in ischemic necrosis of the epiphysis and impaired bone growth,and the degree of damage and treatment effect directly influence the shape and function of the ankle joint,seriously affect the prognosis and quality of life of adolescents.Therefore,anatomical reduction should be achieved after injury as much as possible to achieve stable fixation.For stable fractures of the distal tibial epiphysis(such as Salter-Harris type Ⅰ or Ⅱ fractures),the conservative treatment can be used;whereas for unstable fractures,especially Salter-Harris type Ⅲ and Ⅳ fractures with a high risk of displacement,surgical treatment is preferred.However,due to the physiological characteristics of the epiphysis of adolescents,the distal tibia grow and develop differently,the individualized treatment plans should be developed according to the situation of adolescents.3D printing technology combined with imaging technologies including CT and MRI can print complex shapes of geometric structures to meet individual needs,and play an important role in the surgical treatment of distal tibial epiphyseal fractures,especially Salter-Harris type Ⅲ and Ⅳ fractures,which can contribute to formulating individualized surgical plans,improving the success rate of surgery,reducing the incidence of long-term complications,and greatly improving the prognosis of adolescents.Based on the literature reports in the past decade,this paper reviews the research progress of the application of 3D printing technology in the diagnosis and treatment of distal tibial epiphyseal fractures in adolescents.