Complicated problems solved with the use of 3D printing: A case series

Background The applications of 3D-printed implants in foot and ankle surgery are rapidly rising in popularity. These custom-made implants provide an alternative option for salvage in the setting of a variety of pathologies that are difficult and challenging to treat, including trauma, deformity and arthritis. The use of 3D custom implants has increased significantly in recent years, described in the literature as being utilized for conditions such as avascular necrosis, osteomyelitis, Charcot neuroarthropathy, fracture, large osseous defects and deformity correction. The present study demonstrates novel methods for utilizing 3D-printed implants to treat complex deformities in the foot and ankle.

Methods We performed a retrospective case series of five patients, each of whom required a unique 3D-printed implant solution to treat their foot and ankle pathology. All cases were performed by a single primary surgeon (P.R.B) at a single university-based institution between 2020-2021.

Discussion The present case series aims to describe the utilization of 3D implants to assist with the management of large, bony defects as well as complex deformities and associated sequela in the foot and ankle. The cases discussed in this series provide a satisfactory outcome and can be applied to future patients in similar cohorts.