Application of computer-generated stereolithography and interpositioning template in acetabular fractures: a report of eight cases

Abstract

To determine the effectiveness of stereolithography modeling technologies in the surgical treatment of complex acetabular fractures, five patients with a complex fracture of the acetabulum and three patients with posterior wall fractures were considered in this study. The patients were surgically treated using an interposition template for accurate positioning of the fixation plate and screw trajectories. Intraoperative fluoroscopy confirmed precise plate placement and that all screw trajectories missed the hip joint. Fluoroscopy was only needed for confirmation of fracture reduction and for confirmation of screw location. Application of a life-size stereolithographic model of the pelvis and an interpositioning template along with the computer model of the reversed nonfractured contralateral hemipelvis provides an effective means for preoperative planning and accurate fixation of acetabular fractures. Further studies with this type of preplanning equipment may show a decrease in operative time and morbidity, decrease in radiation exposure, and improvement in accuracy of plate and screw placement.