Three-dimensional correction of cubitus varus deformity using patient-specific 3D-printed osteotomy guides - Report - MDSpire

Three-dimensional correction of cubitus varus deformity using patient-specific 3D-printed osteotomy guides

  • By

  • Mei-Ren Zhang

  • Xiao Zeng

  • Jiang-Long Guo

  • Kui Zhao

  • Jian-Hui Hu

  • Jian-Hao Guan

  • June 2, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Report: Customized 3D-Printed Osteotomy Guides for Cubitus Varus Deformity

Overview

This study evaluates the use of 3D-printed osteotomy guides for correcting cubitus varus deformity. Significant improvements in carrying angles and elbow function were observed postoperatively, with a low complication rate.

Background

Cubitus varus deformity is a common complication following supracondylar fractures, characterized by complex three-dimensional malalignment. Accurate correction is essential to prevent long-term complications such as limited elbow flexion and joint instability. Recent advances in 3D printing technology offer potential solutions for achieving precise surgical corrections.

Data Highlights

ParameterPreoperativePostoperative
Carrying Angle (°)-15.74 ± 6.587.77 ± 3.94
Tilting Angle (°)54.8 ± 7.4051.4 ± 2.33
Flexion Angle Increase (°)N/A24 ± 8
Bone Union Time (months)N/A2.6 ± 0.49
Operative Time (min)N/A139.6 ± 22.26
Intraoperative Blood Loss (mL)N/A42 ± 31.87

Key Findings

  • The mean carrying angle improved from -15.74° to 7.77° postoperatively.
  • All patients normalized their elbow range of motion with a mean increase in flexion of 24°.
  • Bone union was achieved at a mean of 2.6 months.
  • The average operative time was 139.6 minutes with minimal intraoperative blood loss.
  • All patients achieved excellent outcomes according to the Mayo Elbow Performance Index.
  • One patient experienced transient ulnar nerve symptoms postoperatively.

Clinical Implications

The use of 3D-printed, patient-specific osteotomy guides may enhance surgical precision in correcting cubitus varus deformity. This technique could potentially reduce variability in surgical outcomes and improve recovery times.

Conclusion

The study demonstrates that 3D-printed osteotomy guides facilitate safe and accurate correction of cubitus varus deformity through a limited incision, representing a promising approach in orthopedic surgery.

Related Resources & Content

  1. Efficacy of 3D-Printed Surgical Guides in the Correction of Pediatric Cubitus Varus Deformity: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis - ScienceDirect
  2. Frontiers | Three-Dimensional Correction of Cubitus Varus Deformity Using Patient-Specific 3D-Printed Osteotomy Guides
  3. Impact of Fitting Location and Design on Positioning Accuracy of Custom 3D-Printed Surgical Guides for the Radius
  4. Outcomes of Minimally Invasive Surgery Utilizing a 3D-Printed Template for Hallux Valgus Treatment in the Short Term
  5. Customized Plates for Navigation and Stabilization in Distal Radius Fractures: A Case Series Analysis
  6. Frontiers in Surgery — Enhancing precision in percutaneous vertebroplasty: a study on patient-specific 3D-printed guides for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures
  7. Efficacy of 3D-Printed Surgical Guides in the Correction of Pediatric Cubitus Varus Deformity: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis - ScienceDirect
  8. Frontiers | Three-Dimensional Correction of Cubitus Varus Deformity Us ing Patient-Specific 3D-Printed Osteotomy Guides
  9. A Comparative Study between Outcomes of Lateral Closed Wedge Osteotomy and Reverse V Osteotomy in Posttraumatic Cubitus Varus Deformity Patients at a Tertiary Care Center

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