FixThePig: a custom 3D-printed femoral intramedullary nailing for preclinical research applications

Critical-size bone defects (CSBDs) pose significant challenges in clinical orthopaedics and traumatology. Developing reliable preclinical models that accurately simulate human conditions is crucial for translational research. This study addresses the need for a reliable preclinical model by evaluating the design and efficacy of a custom-made 3D-printed intramedullary nail (IMN) specifically for CSBDs in minipigs. The study aims to answer the following questions: Can a custom-made 3D-printed IMN be designed for femoral osteosynthesis in minipigs? Does the use of the custom-made IMN result in consistent and reproducible surgical procedure, particularly in the creation and fixation of CSBDs? Can the custom-made IMN effectively treat and promote bone consolidation of CSBDs?