Three-dimensional-printed patient-specific Kirschner-wire guide for percutaneous fixation of undisplaced scaphoid fractures: a cadaveric study

Abstract

Undisplaced scaphoid waist fractures can be managed by percutaneous fixation. The purpose of this study is to compare percutaneous fixation using a three-dimensional (3-D)-printed guide with the conventional method in a cadaveric study. Twelve wrists were divided into two groups: standard fluroscopic technique group, and a patient-specific 3-D-printed guide group. In the patient-specific group, using high resolution CT scans, we manufactured a mould-guide including a wire guide sleeve aligned with the planned ideal path, and 3-D printed it. On postoperative CT scans we measured the angular deviation of the screw axis from the ideal axis, and compared the two groups. The angular deviation was significantly lower in the patient-specific guide group. We concluded that a 3-D-printed guide for scaphoid percutaneous fixation allows a more accurate placement of the screw than a fluoroscopy guide in our cadaveric model.