3D Printed models of distal radius fractures

3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing or ‘‘rapid prototyping’’, is a low cost technology that uses a 3D computer representation to create solid objects from a feedstock material. In the literature studies report that 3D printed models for orthopedic conditions can improve surgeons’ evaluation of patient-specific anatomy and pathology by way of tactile and visual experience [1–4]. However, it has not been analysed yet how far models may support the surgeon by selecting the most adequate surgical procedure, and which effect they may have on patient’s understanding (and in some cases on their approval) of the surgical procedure they will undergo. In this paper, we present our initial experience preparing and using 3D printed models of the bony anatomy of distal radius fractures and we describe their effect on surgical planning and patient information.