Use of The Mirror-Image Technique for Patient-Specific Reconstruction of Cuboid Fractures

BACKGROUND Displaced cuboid fractures often require surgical management. However, achieving anatomical reduction can be challenging, particularly in cases involving lateral column depression. MATERIAL AND METHODS The study introduced a new method involving the use of a patient-specific three-dimensional (3D) printed guide, which was designed based on 3D models of the diseases and their mirror-imaged 3D reconstruction counterparts. In addition, the specific locking plate for cuboid fractures was scanned to determine the lateral surface and the line of the anterior and posterior articular surfaces of the cuboid. Finally, the guide template was generated after fracture reduction using Unigraphics NX 5.0 software. We recorded general patient information and American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society Ankle-Hindfoot Scale (AOFAS) scores. RESULTS We enrolled 6 males and 4 females ranging in age from 22 to 77 years (mean age: 43.6±17.9). All patients underwent a follow-up visit (range: 12-20 months, mean: 16.45 months). Although no significant differences were found in general characteristics, age, incision length, operative time, blood loss, fluoroscopy time, and fracture union time, significant differences were found in the AOFAS score between preoperative and 6 months assessments. CONCLUSIONS The use of this technique is beneficial for unilateral displaced cuboid fractures, particularly those with lateral column depression, where achieving anatomical reduction by open reduction alone is challenging. Using the patient-specific 3D-printed guide can achieve excellent surgical outcomes and improve the accuracy of fracture reduction.