[Treatment of severe spinal deformity with 3D printing models].

Abstract

Introduction: Scoliosis is a complex deformity that affects all three planes of the axis of the spine. The association between neuromuscular pathology and vertebral alignment was initially described in 1960. Neuromuscular pathology is progressive and results in postural abnormalities. Surgical goals in patients with neuromuscular deformity include anatomical correction for sedation and ambulation, as well as functional improvement. The gold standard of treatment is by posterior approach with transpedicular screws. The "hands-free" technique saves surgical time, decreases radiation by reducing the use of fluoroscopy. The advent of 3D printing technology allows precise study of the anatomical area and detail of the deformity in its three planes. This model can be sterilized for transoperative guidance. A 13-year-old female patient who develops thoracolumbar neuromuscular scoliosis secondary to spastic cerebral palsy (CP), with previous instrumentation T11-L3 of which he develops severe proximal curve. After the segmentation of the three-dimensional model, pedicle violation greater than 2 mm towards bilateral medullary canal was detected in the pedicles of L1 and L2 of previous instrumentation, pedicle dysplasia and the morphological characteristics of the pedicles were observed. Three-dimensional planning and the use of surgical guides represent a tool for surgical planning, especially in severe cases and with pedicle dysplasia. It helps as a surgical guide for the placement of hands-free transpedicular screws with possible reduction of radiation and anesthetic time.