Researchers highlight metal Additive Manufacturing prosthetics for tumour recovery
Researchers from Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China, have developed a surgical technique combining additively manufactured metal prostheses and mesh patches for the treatment of distal radial giant cell tumours (GCTs).
Published in 3D Printing in Medicine, the team’s research evaluates post-operative pain, range of motion, and grip strength, as well as oncological outcomes, complications and degenerative changes in the wrist joint.
From January 2018 to January 2021, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital treated five cases of giant cell tumours found in the part of the radius bone connected to the wrist joint. GCTs are benign, often aggressive tumours which grow on the rounded ends of long bones.
Fully metallic prostheses were designed to enhance stability. Simultaneously, a metal contact surface matching the original radius-carpal contact area was designed to minimise degenerative changes due to metal-carpal joint contact. The research team followed up with these patients over a period ranging from thirty-two to sixty-six months.
At the last follow-up before the paper was published, the mean range of motion in the affected wrists was reported as 20° extension, 21.6° flexion, 71.2° pronation, and 50° supination. The mean grip strength on the affected side was noted as 64.2% compared to the unaffected side. While there were no incidences of aseptic loosening, wrist subluxation, or infections post-prosthesis replacement, two cases presented with distal radioulnar joint dislocation. Of these, one case demonstrated ulnar impaction syndrome with positive ulnar variance and lunate bone degenerative changes on the twelve-month postoperative radiographs. No recurrences or metastases were observed.
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Conclusion
Utilising additively manufactured metal prostheses and mesh grafts for the treatment of Campanacci Grade III or recurrent giant cell tumours of the distal radius was concluded to be an effective approach. According to the researchers, their strategy provides favourable functional outcomes during the early to mid stages of treatment, while also maintaining a low risk of complications.
‘Treatment of distal radius giant cell tumor with 3D-printed metal prosthesis combined with mesh patch’ is available here.
