3D Printing Protocol for Acute Intra-Articular Distal Radius Fractures: A Surgical Technique

A three-dimensional understanding of fracture morphology improves anatomic reduction and internal fixation, improving care. Here, we describe our protocol for 3-dimensional (3D) printing acute distal radius fracture models for potential use in acute clinical care. We use our institutional 3D editing software (TeraRecon) to edit CT scans to exclusively include the distal radius and its pathology. Then, we use additional 3D editing software in Slicer 3D to convert DICOM files to STL files. Finally, using the Makerbot Replicator Z18 filament printer, we print individual models of distal radius fractures. This protocol will allow for the standardization of methods for 3D printing in acute scenarios, whereas there was no standardized protocol before.