Advanced Surgical Simulation Processes in the Correction of Skeletal Defects and Deformities

Overview

Virtual Surgical Planning (VSP), Computer-Aided Surgical Simulation (CASS) for bone corrections, and the customization of implants and devices through 3D printing, known as Patient-Specific Instruments (PSI) and Graft-Specific Instruments (GSI), are assuming increasingly central roles in orthopedic clinical and surgical practice. One area witnessing notable advancement is the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders (MMS) in children, adolescents, and young adults. These disorders involve severe and rare abnormalities in skeletal formation and development across three-dimensional planes, often affecting multiple limbs. Managing such deformities is complex, challenging to standardize, and prone to unpredictable clinical, radiographic, and functional outcomes. The application of 3D modeling and printing technologies offers a deeper understanding of deformities and facilitates improved prediction, precision, reproducibility, and safety in surgical interventions. The Musculoskeletal Apparatus Network (RAMS Network) centers are equipped with advanced 3D laboratories for surgical simulation and planning, aligned with the overarching goal of improving surgery quality through "in-silico" medicine (ISM) principles. At present, numerous complex surgeries involving Virtual Surgical Planning (VSP) and sterilizable 3D-printed Patient-Specific Instruments (PSI) and/or Graft-Specific Instruments (GSI) are being simulated and performed at the Rizzoli Institute. Preliminary data from previous protocols indicate a significant reduction in surgical time with the implementation of VSP and the utilization of PSI and GSI. The aim of this study is to enhance the current process of simulating, planning, and designing surgical support tools within 3D Printing Point-of-Care (3D POC) facilities. To achieve this, it is imperative to expand case volumes and systematically organize, categorize, and standardize simulation and planning procedures.