Three-dimensional printed talar prosthesis with biological function for giant cell tumor of the talus: A case report and review of the literature

Abstract

BACKGROUND

Giant cell tumors (GCT) are most commonly seen in the distal femur. These tumors are uncommon in the small bones of the hand and feet, and a very few cases have been reported. A giant cell tumor of the talus is rarely seen clinically and could be a challenge to physicians.

CASE SUMMARY

We report a rare case of GCT of the talus in one patient who underwent a new reconstructive surgery technique using a three-dimensional (3D) printing talar prosthesis. The prosthesis shape was designed by tomographic image processing and segmentation using technology to match the intact side by mirror symmetry with 3D post-processing technologies. The patient recovered nearly full range of motion of the ankle after 6 mo. The visual analogue scale and American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society scores were 1 and 89 points, respectively.

CONCLUSION

We demonstrated that 3D printing of a talar prosthesis is a beneficial option for GCT of the talus.

Keywords: Three-dimensional printing technology; Giant cell tumor; Talar prosthesis; Case report

Core Tip: Three-dimensional printing technology has been widely used in orthopedics. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the clinical results of the treatment of giant cell tumor of talus bone using a three-dimensional printing personalized talus prosthesis designed by our team. The casting process of this prosthesis is also discussed. Compared with other customized three-dimensional printing talus prostheses, our talus prosthesis is personalized and accurately constructed according to the anatomical data of the patient's normal foot.