| | AUGUST 202083D PRINTED MODELS ­ HIGHLY PRECISE DEFORMITY CORRECTION TREATMENT METHODTHOUGHT LEADERSHIPBy Dr. Pradeep Moonot, Orthopaedic Surgeon & Podiatrist, Mumbai Knee Foot & Ankle Clinic, MumbaiHolding over 15 years of clinical and research experience in orthopaedics in both UK & India, Dr. Pradeep is a dedicated orthopaedic surgeon (knee, foot & ankle specialist) involved in the surgery of the knee, including primary & revision joint replacement, and foot & ankle surgery.The outcomes for deformity correction in the knee foot and ankle injuries have dras-tically improved with the advent of 3D printing technology. The technology offers a realistic op-tion for even the most complicat-ed deformity surgeries. Three-di-mensional (3D) Printed models have been proving to be a boon not only for patients, but also for the surgeons providing them with better and precise pre-oper-ative planning, thereby saving time & correcting the deformity with accuracy.More often, it has been seen in cases where patients undergoing fractures in the foot and ankle usually have deformed structure post treatment. Such corrections may not have any severe impact on their quality of life, but once the deformity occurs, it seems to be an irreversible damage. Now with the revolutionizing technolo-gy, the deformities can be correct-ed with high accuracy and preci-sion. Generating a pre-model of even the most complex structures, the sur-geons can better analyze the anatomy through surgical simulation and plan their surgeries for better outcomes.As the complete anatomy of the foot and ankle can be deeply stud-ied, irrespective of the presence of patient, surgeons get ample time to predict the angle of deformity to be corrected with high accuracy. Being cost effective, such technologies are gaining importance gradually across the country.3D Printed models are highly useful for treating complex conditions like bow legs, knee deformities, deformities in the foot and ankle due to improper or misaligned joining of the bones, claw toes, and plantar fasciitis, among many other orthopedic complications which can be treated with high accuracy. With less time consumption, the hospital stay is also reduced, and the minimally invasive procedures used ensures complete safety and quicker recovery with better functional outcomes.What is 3D Printing?3D printing is a manufacturing meth-od in which objects are made by fus-ing or depositing materials--such as plastic, metal, ceramics, powders, liquids, or even living cells, in layers to produce a 3D object. 3D printing is expected to revolutionize medicine and other fields.
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