The 3D-Printed custom prosthesis for treatment of traumatic tibial plafond and midfoot fracture nonunion: A case report

Abstract

Open fractures involving the foot and ankle provide a challenge to orthopedic surgeons due to increased rates of nonunion, higher risk of infection and/or delayed return to function. Over the past decade, three-dimensional (3D) printing has made significant advances in the field of orthopedic surgery, specifically in guiding surgeon preoperative planning and restoration of the bony anatomy. We present two cases of patients who sustained open ankle plafond and midfoot fractures with significant initial soft tissue involvement and bony loss that went on to nonunion. Both patients were subsequently treated with a 3D-printed custom prosthesis and achieved bony union. Our goal is to shed light on the viability of 3D-printing technology in treating orthopedic trauma of the foot and ankle.