Study Of Proximal Tibia Intra Articular Fractures Schatzker Type 5 And 6 Treated with or Without 3D Printing Model: A Comparative Study

Abstract

Introduction

Complex intra-articular fractures of the proximal tibia (Schatzker types V and VI) present significant challenges in orthopaedic trauma management. Three-dimensional (3D) printing technology has emerged as a potential tool to enhance preoperative planning and surgical execution for these complex fractures. This study aimed to compare the surgical outcomes of proximal tibial Schatzker type V and VI fractures treated with or without the aid of 3D-printed models.

Methods

Prospective comparative study was done on 40 patients with Schatzker type V and VI proximal tibial fractures, equally divided between a 3D print group (n=20) and a conventional treatment control group (n=20). Patient characteristics, fracture parameters, and intraoperative parameters such as operating time, blood loss, fluoroscopy exposure, and number of implant trials were documented and compared.

Results

Both groups shared similar demographic and fracture profiles. The 3D print group showed significantly shorter mean surgical time (110.2±19.3 vs. 142.5±34.04 minutes; p=0.001), lower intraoperative blood loss (275±109.4 vs. 370±155.1 ml; p=0.03), and lower fluoroscopy exposure (0.22±0.15 vs. 0.34±0.06 mSv; p=0.002) than the control group. Notably, 70% of cases in the 3D print group had zero implant trials compared with only 10% in the control group (p<0.001).

Conclusion

Preoperative planning using 3D-printed models in Schatzker type V and VI proximal tibial fractures significantly enhances surgical efficiency by decreasing operating time, blood loss, radiation exposure, and implant trials. These data imply that 3D printing technology is a useful adjunct in the treatment of complex proximal tibial fractures and may enhance the process and outcome of surgical management of these difficult injuries.