The Application and Operation-Effect Analysis for Complex Tibial Plateau Fractures with 3D Printing Technique

Objective: To investigate the value of 3D printing techniques in the treatment of complex tibial plateau fractures. Methods: From September 2016 to September 2018, 28 patients with complex tibial plateau fractures were treated in our hospital. According to the odevity of hospitalized order, the patients were divided into two groups. Group A used 3D reconstruction, virtually reduction, 3D printing and demonstration of individual fracture model before operation while group B only received conventional process by use X-rays or CT image. Comparison between the two groups was made in operation time, operative blood loss, radiation frequency, surgery instrument cost and knee function score. Results: The follow-up was 14.4 months on average (ranged 6 to 22 months). There was no statistical difference of the surgery instrument cost between the 2 groups (P > 0.05). The operation time of group A was significantly shorter than that of group B (P < 0.05). Group A also performed better than group B in comparison of operative blood loss and radiation frequency. The excellent good rate of HSS score in group A was 92.86%; it was higher than that 85.71% in group B. There was no statistical difference between the 2 groups (χ2 = 0.373, P = 0.54). Conclusion: 3D printing techniques can improve surgery effect in complex tibial plateau fractures.