Do three-dimensional modeling and printing technologies have an impact on the surgical success of percutaneous transsacral screw fixation?

OBJECTIVES: This study aims to determine the role of computed tomography (CT)-derived templates, produced by three- dimensional (3D) modeling, image processing and printing technology, in percutaneous transsacral screw fixation and evaluate the effects of their use on surgical success. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This prospective study conducted between June 2018 and December 2019 utilized 15 composite pelvis models for transsacral-transiliac screw fixation. For the procedure, modeled templates were utilized for wiring on the left side of the pelvis models, while the conventional method was performed on the right side of the pelvis models. In the computed tomography images acquired after wiring, appropriate wire position was evaluated. RESULTS: The placed wires held the S1 body appropriately in all of the procedures with or without template use. With the template use, the wires were placed appropriately in the surgical bone corridor suitable for the transsacral-transiliac screw fixation in all of the models. However, with the conventional methods, the wires were not placed in the safe surgical bone corridor in four models. The wire deviation angle in the axial plane was significantly lower in the template group (p=0.001), whereas it was not different between the template group and the conventional method group in the coronal plane (p=0.054). The amount of deviation from the ideal wire entry site was significantly reduced in the template group compared to the conventional method group (p=0.001). CONCLUSION: With the use of 3D modeling and printing technology, CT-derived templates can be produced and utilized for transsacral screw fixation procedures and their use increases surgical success by reducing the surgical margin of error.