This aim of this study was to assess the feasibility of designing and introducing generic 3D-printed instrumentation for routine use in total knee arthroplasty. Instruments were designed to take advantage of 3D-printing technology, particularly ensuring that all parts were pre-assembled, to theoretically reduce the time and skill required during surgery. Concerning functionality, ranges of resection angle and distance were restricted within a safe zone, while accommodating either mechanical or anatomical alignment goals. To identify the most suitable biocompatible materials, typical instrument shapes and mating parts, such as dovetails and screws, were designed and produced.Aims
Materials and Methods
Purpose of this experimental-prospective study on 35 total knee prostheses is to compare the data related to the bone cuts imposed during surgery using PIGalileo navigator and those really gotten and measured by TC scan examination at follow-up. PIGalileo navigator consists of a photogrammetric infrared camera that links a computer to three reflecting sensories fixed on femur and tibia. At follow-up, all the knees were submitted to a spiral TC analysis making a sequential 3 mm axial scans. In six cases (17%) it has not been possible complete the operation utilizing the navigator. Any statistically significance has been found regarding the mechanical axes of the femur and the tibia, the sagittal rotation of the femur and the horizontal rotation of the tibia. High level of statistical significance has been noted for the horizontal rotation of the femur (intraop: 3.7° extra vs. TC: 0.2° intra; p=.006) and for the sagittal rotation of the tibia (intraop: 6.2° post vs. TC: 3.5° post; p = .003). PIGalileo navigator has shown effectiveness to reproduce bone cuts respect the major axes of the knee but it has been less precise in rotation, mainly for the femoral cut.
