OBJECTIVETo investigate the application of 3D printing and digital technology in preoperative assessment and planning of internal fixation surgery for complex tibial plateau fracture.

METHODSComplex tibial plateau fractures and commonly used plates for tibial plateau were imaged using computed tomography (CT) to reconstruct the 3D fracture and plate models. The 3D models were used to perform virtual reduction and preoperative planning of internal fixation surgery with the most appropriate plates assisted by the 3D library of plates. According to the optimal plan, the 3D physical models of tibial plateau fractures and plates were 3D printed to simulate internal fixation operation. The effects of internal fixation were compared between the virtual surgery and the simulated surgery based on the 3D models.

RESULTSThe effects of internal fixation in the simulated surgery based on the 3D models were consistent with those of the virtual surgery. No significant difference was found in the screw length between the two surgeries.

CONCLUSIONThe combination of 3D printing and digital design can improve the effects of internal fixation for complex tibial plateau fractures.