Radial head replacement using personalized 3D printed porous tantalum prosthesis

Abstract

Fractures of the radial head account for 33% of elbow fractures. More and more studies have found that the radial head plays an important role in the normal function of the elbow joint, and many complications will occur after resection of the radial head. Accurate treatment of radial head fractures is crucially important. At this stage, commercialized radial head prosthesis of fixed size is commonly used in radial head replacement, but the mismatch of prosthesis and material problems have resulted in many complications. The three-dimensional (3D) printed porous tantalum has good biocompatibility, is conducive to bone ingrowth, has ideal elastic modulus, and can be prepared into a highly porous material that can be designed to match the radial head according to each patient's personalized anatomical structure. The purpose of this study was to investigate the elbow joint function, complications and prosthesis conditions after radial head replacement using 3D printed porous tantalum. Seven patients with comminuted fracture of radial head in our Center received radial head replacement using 3D printed porous tantalum. Patients were followed on the elbow joint function, range of motion (ROM), elbow radiographs, postoperative complications, and bone condition of tantalum metal. quality situation. Follow-up data showed that the patients had less postoperative pain, improved elbow function and ROM, and bone ingrowth in the tantalum prosthesis. The 3D printing porous tantalum can be applied to hip replacement, knee replacement, and other patients with irregular bone defects such as bone tumor, bone deformity, etc., which has the potential to realize personalized and precise treatment.