Clinical evaluation of rapid <scp>3D</scp> p<scp>rint‐formed</scp> implants for surgical reconstruction of large cranial defects

Abstract

BACKGROUND: To clinically evaluate 3D print-formed implant process, using cranioplasty as a proof of concept, to examine its effectiveness and utility as a method of intraoperative implant fabrication. METHODS: Twelve patients had a 3D print-formed template created for patient-specific implant manufacture. Of these patients, 10 received intraoperatively formed polymethylmethacrylate cranioplasty implants between 2013 and 2019. The 3D print-formed implant templates produced to manufacture these patient-specific implants were generated using patient computed tomography scans and 3D printed using fused deposition modelling technology. Cosmetic and functional results were determined by participating surgeons, in conjunction with a patient questionnaire. RESULTS: The functional results and stability of the implants were deemed to be favourable by participating surgeons. Three of the 10 patients completed a post-cranioplasty survey, all of whom judged their cosmetic results as good or excellent. At time of writing, the rate of surgical revision was zero and without clinically adverse outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: 3D print-formed implants are an effective method of patient-specific implant formation.