3D Models in Scoliosis surgery
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Are 3D printed models cost-effective in the pre-operative planning of complex scoliosis surgery: a pilot study
IRAS ID
211757
Contact name
Karen A Eley
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
3D printing has gained considerable interest in recent years, potentially revolutionising all aspects of patient care, education and surgical planning. We recently established a fully centralised 3D printing service in our Trust employing a dedicated technician, and serving the needs of all specialities within the Trust and further afield.
The subjective benefit of 3D printing is widely reported; however, the current NHS financial climate means that it is becoming increasingly difficult to justify the introduction of this technology into routine patient care. One patient group that provides an excellent opportunity to undertake such an analysis are children with complex scoliosis. These children routinely undergo cross-sectional imaging with computed tomography (CT) providing the opportunity for segmentation and fabrication of 3D models, without the need for additional imaging. In our Trust, surgery is performed by two Consultant Orthopaedic surgeons in unison (thus minimising any potential operator bias), and 3D printing is not currently used due to difficulties with NHS funding.
In complex scoliosis the combination of limited surgical exposure, reduced bone stock, and associated congenital anomalies of the vertebrae make surgery challenging. This increases the risk of incorrect screw placement which can have devastating consequences. Since many of these children have associated problems including reduced respiratory reserve, any associated reduction in intra-operative surgical time would be highly beneficial.
This prospective pilot study aims to explore the effects of 3D printing in complex scoliosis in both quantitative and qualitative terms using two patient groups: (A) Control group (standard care) (B) Study group with pre-operative 3D models.
This pilot data will permit a sample size calculation to provide us with the statistical basis for a more comprehensive investigation into the full costs and associated savings of 3D printing in clinical practice. This would directly benefit patients by providing evidence for 3D printing, and enabling surgeons to secure NHS funding as part of routine clinical care if these costs are demonstrated to be offset elsewhere within the patient pathway.
REC name
London - Bromley Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/LO/2193
Date of REC Opinion
1 Feb 2017
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion