To investigate reduction and fixation of complex acetabular fractures using three-dimensional (3D) printing technique and personalized acetabular wing-plate via lateral-rectus approach.

From March to July 2016, 8 patients with complex acetabular fractures were surgically managed through 3D printing personalized acetabular wing-plate via lateral-rectus approach at Department of Orthopedics, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University. There were 4 male patients and 4 female patients, with an average age of 57 years (ranging from 31 to 76 years). According to Letournel-Judet classification, there were 2 anterior+ posterior hemitransverse fractures and 6 both-column fractures, without posterior wall fracture or contralateral pelvic fracture. The CT data files of acetabular fracture were imported into the computer and 3D printing technique was used to print the fractures models after reduction by digital orthopedic technique. The acetabular wing-plate was designed and printed with titanium. All fractures were treated via the lateral-rectus approach in a horizontal position after general anesthesia. The anterior column and the quadrilateral surface fractures were fixed by 3D printing personalized acetabular wing-plate, and the posterior column fractures were reduction and fixed by antegrade lag screws under direct vision.

All the 8 cases underwent the operation successfully. Postoperative X-ray and CT examination showed excellent or good reduction of anterior and posterior column, without any operation complications. Only 1 case with 75 years old was found screw loosening in the pubic bone with osteoporosis after 1 month′s follow-up, who didn′t accept any treatment because the patient didn′t feel discomfort. According to the Matta radiological evaluation, the reduction of the acetabular fracture was rated as excellent in 3 cases, good in 4 cases and fair in 1 case. All patients were followed up for 3 to 6 months and all patients had achieved bone union. According to the modified Merle D′Aubigné and Postel scoring system, 5 cases were excellent, 2 cases were good, 1 case was fair.

Surgical management of complex acetabular fracture via lateral-rectus approach combine with 3D printing personalized acetabular wing-plate can effectively improve reduction quality and fixation effect. It will be truly accurate, personalized and minimally invasive.

Hip fractures; Fracture fixation, internal; Three-dimensional printing