Application of 3D printing technology in preoperative planning and treatment of proximal humerus fractures: a retrospective study.

Background: The application of 3D printing technology in preoperative planning and treatment of these fractures has shown promise in improving surgical efficiency, trauma, and patient outcomes. This study aims to demonstrate the advantages of applying 3D printing technology to the treatment of proximal humeral fractures by comparing cases selected for 3D printing with a control group (conventional surgery group), in order to further promote the application of 3D technology in a broader range of trauma treatments.

Methods: This study conducted the clinical data of 51 patients with proximal humeral fractures. Inclusion criteria encompassed patients diagnosed with Neer II and III type proximal humerus fractures. Among them, 24 patients underwent traditional surgery, while 27 patients underwent surgery with 3D printing technology support. Intraoperative parameters, functional outcomes, radiographic results at 6 months, and pain scores were collected and analyzed.

Results: The 3D printing group demonstrated significantly reduced total surgery time compared to the traditional surgery group (P < 0.05). Implant placement accuracy was significantly higher in the 3D printing group compared to the traditional surgery group (P < 0.05). Functional outcomes at 6 months favored the 3D printing group, with higher Constant-Murley Score and lower Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) Score compared to the traditional surgery group (P < 0.05). Additionally, the 3D printing group showed a significantly lower prevalence of heterotopic ossification compared to the traditional surgery group (P < 0.05). Preoperative and early postoperative pain scores were significantly lower in the 3D printing group compared to the traditional surgery group (P < 0.05).

Conclusion: The integration of 3D printing technology into the preoperative planning and treatment of complex proximal humerus fractures demonstrated significant advantages in surgical efficiency, functional outcomes, radiographic prognosis, and pain management.