3-Dimensional prebent plate fixation in corrective osteotomy of malunited upper extremity fractures using a real-sized plastic bone model prepared by preoperative computer simulation.

PURPOSE: To assess the clinical outcome and accuracy of prebent plate fixation in corrective osteotomy for malunited upper extremity fractures using a plastic bone model manufactured by preoperative computer simulation. METHODS: Nine consecutive patients underwent computed tomography (CT)-based 3-dimensional corrective osteotomy for malunited upper extremity fractures. There were 4 cubitus varus deformities, 1 cubitus valgus deformity, and 4 forearm diaphyseal malunions. We constructed a computer model of the affected bones using the CT data and simulated the 3-dimensional deformity correction on a computer. A real-sized plastic model of the corrected bone was manufactured by rapid prototyping. We used a metal plate, prebent to fit the plastic bone model, in the actual surgery. Patients were evaluated after an average follow-up of 22 months (range, 14-36 mo). We retrospectively collected radiographic and clinical data at the most recent follow-up and compared them with preoperative data. We also performed CT after surgery and evaluated the error in corrective osteotomy as the difference between preoperative simulation and postoperative bone model. RESULTS: The range of forearm rotation and grip strength in patients with forearm malunions improved after corrective osteotomies of the radius and ulna. Wrist pain, which 2 patients with forearm malunion had experienced before surgery, disappeared or decreased substantially after surgery. Radiographic examination indicated that preoperative angular deformities were nearly nonexistent after all corrective osteotomies. Three-dimensional errors in the corrective osteotomy using a prebent plate, as evaluated by CT data, were less than 3 mm and 2°. CONCLUSIONS: Prebent plate fixation in corrective osteotomy for malunited upper extremity fractures using a 3-dimensionally corrected, real-sized plastic bone model prepared by preoperative computer simulation is a precise and relatively easily performed technique that results in satisfactory clinical outcome. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic IV.