Surgical treatment outcomes of acetabular posterior wall and posterior column fractures using 3D printing technology and individualized custom-made metal plates: a retrospective study

Abstract Background Fractures involving the posterior acetabulum with its rich vascular and neural supply present challenges in trauma orthopedics. This study evaluates the effectiveness of 3D printing technology with the use of custom-made metal plates in the treatment of posterior wall and column acetabular fractures. Methods A retrospective analysis included 31 patients undergoing surgical fixation for posterior wall and column fractures of the acetabulum (16 in the 3D printing group, utilizing 3D printing for a 1:1 pelvic model and custom-made plates based on preoperative simulation; 15 in the traditional group, using conventional methods). Surgical and instrument operation times, intraoperative fluoroscopy frequency, intraoperative blood loss, fracture reduction quality, fracture healing time, preoperative and 12-month postoperative pain scores (Numeric Rating Scale, NRS), hip joint function at 6 and 12 months (Harris scores), and complications were compared. Results The surgical and instrument operation times were significantly shorter in the 3D printing group ( p < 0.001). The 3D printing group exhibited significantly lower intraoperative fluoroscopy frequency and blood loss ( p = 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively). No significant differences were observed between the two groups in terms of fracture reduction quality, fracture healing time, preoperative pain scores (NRS scores), and 6-month hip joint function (Harris scores) ( p > 0.05). However, at 12 months, hip joint function and pain scores were significantly better in the 3D printing group ( p < 0.05). Although the incidence of complications was lower in the 3D printing group (18.8% vs. 33.3%), the difference did not reach statistical significance ( p = 0.433). Conclusion Combining 3D printing with individualized custom-made metal plates for acetabular posterior wall and column fractures reduces surgery and instrument time, minimizes intraoperative procedures and blood loss, enhancing long-term hip joint function recovery. Clinical Trial Registration 12/04/2023;Trial Registration No. ChiCTR2300070438; http://www.chictr.org.cn .