Feasibility of 3D-printed patient-specific drill template for cervical pedicle screw placement

Abstract

Objective To evaluated the effect of computer-assisted pedicle screw placement using the 3D-printed patient-specific drill template. Methods CT scan was performed on each cervical vertebra of 8 cadavers (4 males and 4 females) and data were saved in Dicom format. 3D reconstruction models were generated with the Mimics to simulate bilateral C3-C6 pedicle screw placement and a drill template was designed. The drill template was manufactured by 3D printing using the photosensitive resin and applied to assist the pedicle screw placement. Accuracy of screw placement was assessed with radiographic examination. Results A total of 64 pedicle screws were inserted with 62 screws entirely inside the pedicle and 2 screws violated into vertebral artery orifice. Accuracy of screw placement was 97%. Conclusions 3D-printed patient-specific drill template is easy to apply and accurate in assisting cervical screw placement. The potential use of drill template to place cervical pedicle screws is promising. Key words: Cervical vertebrae; Imaging, three-dimensional; Computer-aided design; Rapid prototyping