ObjectiveTo investigate the clinical application value of 3D printing technology in the mini-invasive treatment of unstable distal radius fractures.

MethodsTwenty-five patients with unstable distal radius fracture were divided into the MIS group(12 cases) and ORIF group(13 cases).The MIS group and ORIF group were treated with mini-invasive surgery reduction(close reduction or limited incision reduction) combined with external fixation assisted by 3D printing technology, and open reduction combined with internal fixation, respectively.The operation time, incision size and postoperative following-up of the activity of wrist motion(palmarflexion, dorsiflexion, ulnardeviation, radialdeviation, pronation, supinaion) were compared between two groups.The recovery of palmar inclination, ulnar deviation, radial length and joint surface in two groups were observed using the positive and lateral wrist radiographs.According to Gartland-Werley scoring criteria, the wrist joint function between two groups was evaluated and compared.

ResultsThe operation in two groups was successfully completed, and the average operation time and incision length in MIS group were less than those in ORIF group(P < 0.01).The recovery of wrist joint function in two groups was good, and the differences of the excellent and good rate of the activity of the wrist motion, and score of wrist joint function between two groups were not statistically significant(P>0.05).

ConclusionsThe mini-invasive surgery reduction(close reduction or limited incision reduction) combined and external fixation assisted by 3D printing technology combined with open reduction and internal fixation in the treatment of the unstable distal radius fractures has little incision, short operation time and good recovery of wrist joint function, which can avoid secondary surgery.