Our Summary

This research looks into the use of 3-D printed implants to fix a common issue in foot surgery - bone defects in the joint connecting the big toe to the foot. These defects can happen due to various reasons like failed previous surgeries, bone infection, or lack of blood supply to the bone. The traditional treatments for such issues include bone grafts, bone shortening, and even partial amputation of the toe. The study suggests that 3-D printed implants could be a better alternative, as they can be custom made for each patient and could potentially offer improved recovery times and less discomfort.

The research was conducted on three patients (four feet in total) who were given these 3-D printed implants. Though two patients initially had some discomfort due to the implant design, after a year of follow up, all patients were pain free with improved pain scores. The study concludes that these custom 3-D-printed implants can provide improved results in surgeries of this kind, by restoring the length and alignment of the joint, thus improving the function of the toe.

FAQs

  1. What are the traditional treatments for bone defects in the joint connecting the big toe to the foot?
  2. How can 3-D printed implants improve recovery times and reduce discomfort compared to traditional treatments?
  3. What were the results of the research conducted on patients given 3-D printed implants for bone defects in their feet?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might give a patient about joint fusion is to follow post-operative instructions carefully, including recommendations for physical therapy and avoiding certain activities that could put stress on the joint. It is important to give the joint enough time to heal properly in order to achieve the best possible outcome. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet can help support the healing process and overall joint health.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended joint fusion include those with severe arthritis, joint deformities, or instability in the affected joint. This can include patients with conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, or post-traumatic arthritis. Joint fusion is often recommended when other treatments, such as medication, physical therapy, or joint injections, have not provided sufficient relief. It is also often recommended for patients who have failed previous surgeries or who have significant damage to the joint that cannot be repaired through other means.

Timeline

Before Joint Fusion:

  1. Patient experiences pain and discomfort in the joint connecting the big toe to the foot.
  2. Patient undergoes traditional treatments such as bone grafts, bone shortening, or partial amputation of the toe.
  3. Patient may experience failed surgeries, bone infection, or lack of blood supply to the bone.

After Joint Fusion:

  1. Patient undergoes surgery to receive a 3-D printed implant to fix the bone defect in the joint.
  2. Initially, some patients may experience discomfort due to the implant design.
  3. After a year of follow up, all patients are pain free with improved pain scores.
  4. Custom 3-D printed implants provide improved results by restoring the length and alignment of the joint, improving the function of the toe.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the risks and potential complications associated with joint fusion surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery process and what can I expect in terms of pain and discomfort?
  3. Will I need physical therapy or rehabilitation after the surgery?
  4. How long do the results of joint fusion surgery typically last?
  5. Are there any alternative treatments or surgical options for my condition?
  6. Will I need any additional surgeries or procedures in the future after joint fusion?
  7. What is the success rate of joint fusion surgery for patients with similar conditions?
  8. How will the 3-D printed implants be customized for my specific needs?
  9. What are the potential benefits of using 3-D printed implants compared to traditional treatments?
  10. How long has this technology been used in orthopedic surgeries and what is the long-term success rate for patients who receive these implants?

Reference

Authors: Johnson LJ, Leatham PR, Clougherty CO, Highlander PD. Journal: J Am Podiatr Med Assoc. 2023 Nov-Dec;113(6):21-148. doi: 10.7547/21-148. PMID: 38194340