Application Of 3D Printing Customized Bone Cement Molds In Reconstructing The Defect Of The Proximal Humerus And Distal Radius After Oncologic Resection: A Case Series Report

Abstract Background: Reconstructing the defect of the proximal humerus and distal radius after en bloc resection of tumors is challenging for surgeons. We present a defect reconstruction technique using bone cement prosthesis shaped by 3D printing customized molds in a case series as well as the oncologic and functional outcomes of these cases. Methods: A total of thirteen bone tumor cases (eight cases in the proximal humerus and five cases in the distal radius) of patients who experienced this reconstructive method from 2014-2019 were retrospectively reviewed. Local recurrence, metastases, complications, musculoskeletal tumor society score (MSTS score), and visual analogue scale (VAS) were used to evaluate the outcomes.Results: The average follow-up period was 46.5 months (range, 27-76 months). At the end of the follow-up, neither metastasis nor recurrence was found in all cases, and no patients demonstrated complications of fracture, infection, or implant loosening (only one patient who underwent proximal humerus resection and reconstruction complained of weakness in lifting the arms). The average MSTS score was 23.2 (77.2%, range, 66.7%-80%), and the average postoperative VAS was 1.31 ± 0.48 (range, 1-2).Conclusion: Bone cement prosthesis molded by 3D printing can be an effective and inexpensive option for reconstructing the proximal humerus and distal radius after en bloc resection of bone tumors. We recommend this method especially for elderly patients who need to undergo this procedure and do not require much function of the upper extremity.Level of evidence Ⅳ, a retrospective study.