The Accuracy of 3D Printed Carpal Bones Generated from Cadaveric Specimens

Document Type : RESEARCH PAPER

Authors

1 Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Stratford, NJ, USA

2 Department of Hand & Upper Extremity Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA

3 Department of Radiology, Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals, Cherry Hill, NJ, USA

Abstract

Background: Computer assisted three-dimensional (3D) printing of anatomic models using advanced imaging has
wide applications within orthopaedics. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the 3D printing accuracy of carpal
bones.
Methods: Seven cadaveric wrists underwent CT scanning, after which select carpal bones (scaphoid, capitate, lunate,
and trapezium) were dissected in toto. Dimensions including length, circumference, and volume were measured directly
from the cadaver bones. The CT images were converted into 3D printable stereolithography (STL) files. The STL files
were converted into solid prints using a commercially available 3D printer. The 3D printed models’ dimensions were
measured and compared to those of the cadaver bones. A paired t-test was performed to determine if a statistically
significant difference existed between the mean measurements of the cadavers and 3D printed models. The intraclass
correlation coefficients (ICC) between the two groups were calculated to measure the degree of agreement.
Results: On average, the length and circumference of the 3D printed models were within 2.3 mm and 2.2 mm,
respectively, of the cadaveric bones. There was a larger discrepancy in the volume measured, which on average was
within 0.65 cc (15.9%) of the cadaveric bones. These differences were not statistically significant (P > 0.05). There
was strong agreement between all measurements except the capitate’s length and lunate’s volume.
Conclusion: 3D printing can add value to patient care and improve outcomes. This study demonstrates that 3D printing
can both accurately and reproducibly fabricate boney models that closely resemble the corresponding cadaveric anatomy.
Level of evidence: V

Keywords

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The Archives of Bone and Joint Surgery
Volume 9, Issue 4
July and August 2021
Pages 432-438

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History

  • Receive Date: 02 August 2020
  • Revise Date: 06 November 2020
  • Accept Date: 11 November 2020

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