Role of 3D printing in the management of complex acetabular fractures: a comparative study

Purpose The aim of this study is to assess the role of 3D printing of actual size pelvis in the management and outcome of acetabular fractures. Methods Retrospective study with inclusion of acetabular fractures which were divided into two groups (traditional and 3D printing) was done over a 1 year period. The indices for comparison of both groups in this study were (a) operative time (from skin incision to suture), (b) intraoperative blood loss (noted from the anaesthetist notes), (c) times of intraoperative fluoroscopy, (d) postoperative complications, (e) quality of fracture reduction (good = 2 mm displacement) and (f) Harris hip score at final follow-up. Results 27 cases (traditional group = 15, 3D printing group = 12) meeting the study criteria were included in the study with a mean follow-up of 26.3 ± 11.2 months. There was a significant difference in the operative time, intraoperative blood loss and number of intraoperative fluoroscopy images. The mean operative time was shorter in the 3D printing group by 62 min. No difference was noted in the quality of reduction in either of the groups (p > 0.05). Conclusion 3D imaging and printing helps in better understanding of the anatomy of acetabular fractures. It leads to reduced operative time, blood loss as well as exposure to radiation intraoperatively. There is no difference in functional outcome at final follow-up between 3D printing and traditional groups.