3D printed composite model of pelvic osteochondroma and nerve roots

BACKGROUND: 3D-printing has become increasingly utilized in the preoperative planning of clinical orthopaedics. Surgical treatment of bone tumours within the pelvis is challenging due to the complex 3D bone structure geometry, as well as the proximity of vital structures. We present a unique case where a composite bone and nerve model of the lower lumbar spine, pelvis and accompanying nerve roots was created using 3D-printing. The 3D-printed model created an accurate reconstruction of the pelvic tumour and traversing nerves for preoperative planning and allowed for efficient and safe surgery. CASE PRESENTATION: We present a unique case where a composite bone and nerve model of the lower lumbar spine, pelvis and accompanying nerve roots was created using 3D-printing. The bony pelvis and spine model was created using the CT, whereas the nerve roots were derived from the MRI and printed in an elastic material. 3D-printed model created an accurate reconstruction of the pelvic tumour and traversing nerves for preoperative planning and allowed for efficient and safe surgery. Pelvic tumour surgery is inherently dangerous due to the delicate nature of the surrounding anatomy. The composite model enabled the surgeon to very carefully navigate the anatomy with a focused resection and extreme care knowing the exact proximity of the L3 and L4 nerve roots. CONCLUSION: The patient had complete resection of this tumour, no neurological complication and full resolution of his symptoms due to careful, preoperative planning with the use of the composite 3D model.