Case A patient presented with severe trauma following a motorcycle accident which resulted in an associated both column fracture of the acetabulum.Due to the severity and comminution of the fracture, 2D imaging did not convey the full extent of the fracture pattern and fragment location. This made it diffi cult to conceptualize the pathology. The severity of the injury necessitated a higher level of insight.

FIG 1Obturator view of pelvis showing both anterior and posterior column fractures

FIG 2Fragment of posterior portion of acetabular rim near illio-pubic suture

FIG 3Oblique view of model showing acetabular fracture with acetabular fragment highlighted

AbstractA physical, 1:1 scale 3D printed model of the patient’s pelvis provided additional insight into the severe injury beyond what was possible by viewing traditional 2D patient scans alone.

The model helped the surgical team determine the optimum treatment plan.

ClinicianMr. Andrew Johnston Consultant Orthopedic and Trauma Surgeon

Comminuted Associated Both Column Acetabular Fracture

An axial3D anatomical model aided diagnosis and preoperative planning of a highly comminuted associated both column acetabulum fracture.

Due to the high comminution of the fracture it was diffi cult to appreciate from the plain x-rays and CT scans where all the fragments belonged.In this case the 3D model allowed us to identify a fragment, which was displaced and locked in the anterior aspect of the acetabulum but belonged to the posterior wall of the acetabulum. This allowed the team to confi dently plan our surgical approach, resulting in a dual anterior and posterior approach. Without the knowledge obtained from the 3D model we would have planned a single posterior approach and the surgical reduction would not have been possible, as a result this saved signifi cant operative time.

OrthopedicsCase Study

Mr. Andrew Johnston, Consultant Orthopedic SurgeonRoyal Victoria Hospital, Belfast

Healthcare ProviderThe Royal Victoria Hospital Belfast, Northern Ireland

Advancing Surgical Standards

Greater insight into the complexity of the fracture

More accurate preoperative planning

Useful for educating the medical team

FIG 5 (RIGHT)Oblique view of pelvis and acetabulum on interactive 3D model

FIG 4 (LEFT)Posterior view of dual column fracture presented on interactive 3D model

ConclusionThe model allowed the trauma team to gain a much greater insight into the patien t’s pathology.

With access to the 3D printed model, the optimum surgical treatment was determined signifi cantly reducing the surgery time and improving patient outcome following this severe fracture.

ResultWith access to the 3D printed model the clinical team came to consensus that the original plan was to change from a posterior approach to a dual anterior and posterior approach. This was concluded following the diffi culty in visualizing the entirety of the fracture pattern, including fragment location that was not seen from the 2D images.

Elevating Patient Care

Faster treatment

Reduced time in theatre

Rapid recovery

Improved communication

Reduced complications

Improving Standards and Effi ciencies

Increased standard of care

Reduced risk of complications and infections

Saved time in surgery and post-operative care

www.axial3D.com contact@axial3D.com +44 (0) 28 9018 3590

Patient Data: 567 CT images

Color: White Grey Clear Clear with Contrast

Layout In-situ Separate

Construction: Solid Hollow Split

Process and Delivery: 24 hours