Three-dimensional simulation/printing-assisted surgery for symptomatic metastatic epidural spinal cord compression of posterior column: efﬁcacy assessment based on 2-year follow-up

Front. Surg., 2023 · DOI: 10.3389/fsurg.2023.1177280 · Published: May 26, 2023

Simple Explanation

This study investigates the use of 3D simulation and printing to aid surgery for metastatic epidural spinal cord compression (MESCC) in the posterior column of the spine. The study compares surgical outcomes of patients who received 3D simulation/printing-assisted surgery with those who underwent direct surgery without these aids. The results suggest that 3D simulation/printing can improve surgical efficiency and safety in treating this specific type of spinal cord compression.

Study Duration

2 years

Participants

46 patients with symptomatic metastatic epidural spinal cord compression of the posterior column

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
3D simulation/printing-assisted surgery significantly reduced operation time compared to the non-simulated group.
2
The simulated group experienced less intraoperative blood loss than the non-simulated group.
3
The screw adjustment rate and intraoperative fluoroscopy times were lower in the simulated group, indicating improved surgical precision.

Research Summary

This study evaluated the efficacy of 3D simulation/printing-assisted surgery for metastatic epidural spinal cord compression of the posterior column. The simulated group showed improvements in operation time, blood loss, screw adjustment rate, fluoroscopy times, and incidence of dural injury/cerebrospinal fluid leakage. The authors conclude that preoperative 3D simulation/printing-assisted surgery is a practical and feasible approach for treating this condition.

Practical Implications

Improved Surgical Outcomes

The use of 3D simulation/printing can lead to more efficient and safer surgical procedures for treating metastatic epidural spinal cord compression of the posterior column.

Enhanced Preoperative Planning

3D models provide surgeons with additional information for determining tumor boundaries, assessing relationships with critical structures, and planning negative resection margins.

Potential Cost-Effectiveness

Although 3D printing can be expensive, the reduction in operation time, blood loss, and other complications may lead to overall cost savings in the long run.

Study Limitations

1
The study is retrospective in nature, which may introduce bias.
2
The sample size is relatively small, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
3
The study focuses only on metastatic epidural spinal cord compression of the posterior column, limiting the applicability to other types of spinal metastases.

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to Oncology