Customized 3D printed guides for the repair of rupture of the posterior root of the internal meniscus. Preliminary outcomes

156 ABSTRACT Objective: to compare the performance of customized 3D printed guides versus standard commercial guides for the repair of rupture of the posterior root of the internal meniscus. Methods: a prospective observational study was made of 6 patients subjected to arthroscopic repair of the posterior root of the internal meniscus of the knee. The patients were divided into two groups, with a standard commercial guide being used in one group and the customized 3D printed guide in the other. Results: there were no significant differences in surgery time between the two groups (p > 0.05). The mean time was 65 minutes in the standard guide group (standard deviation –SD–: 8) versus 63 minutes in the customized guide group (SD: 10). The 3D printed guides adapted on both supports to the bone surface of the tibia and were precise in conducting the guide needles towards the planned position. There were no problems derived from friction between the metal of the needles and the bore of the customized guide, and handling was ergonomically satisfactory for the surgeon. Conclusions: the preliminary findings of this study warrant the viability of the design and manufacture of customized 3D printed guides for the repair of rupture of the posterior root of the internal meniscus, which allowed precise preparation of the tibial tunnels. Their use did not shorten the surgery time versus the conventional guides, though they allowed correct adaptation to the patient anatomy, and handling was ergonomically satisfactory for the surgeon. ABSTRACT Guías personalizadas impresas en 3D para la reparación de las roturas de la raíz posterior del menisco interno. Resultados preliminares