Current clinical applications of 3D printing in the management of complex fractures

Abstract

The field of skeletal traumatology has undergone revolutionary changes worldwide over the last decade with the development of 3D printing technologies. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of how 3D printing is transforming fracture treatment and opening up new possibilities in the management of complex fractures. The use of 3D printing in medicine offers a new dimension in precision and customisation of treatment, enabling the creation of personalised surgical templates, individualised implants and tools. The development of 3D printing is closely linked to other technological advances, such as augmented reality methods, which represent a significant step forward in the visualisation and planning of surgical procedures. Although 3D printing offers many advantages, its integration into routine clinical practice still faces many challenges. This article examines the history and development of 3D printing technology, materials used in medicine, preoperative planning, the creation of surgical guides, the fabrication of patient-specific implants, and the integration of 3D printing and augmented reality in skeletal surgery, highlighting the technical, logistical, and ethical challenges of implementing this technology in surgical practice.