Can 3-D printing and virtual reality improve outcomes in periarticular fractures - a double blinded randomized controlled trial?

Objective: The aim of this randomized controlled trial (RCT) is to evaluate the efficacy of 3D printing and virtual reality (VR) for the surgical planning of periarticular fractures in adults.

Methods: This is a double-blinded RCT that will include 168 adult patients with periarticular fractures (proximal humerus, elbow, distal radius, carpal, pelvis-acetabular and hip, distal femur, proximal tibia, ankle, and foot fractures), who will be randomized into two groups. Patients and outcome assessors will be blinded. Group A will undergo conventional surgical planning, while Group B will have 3D printing and VR as planning tools. Patients in both groups will be assessed for accuracy of fracture reduction, operative time, blood loss, radiation dose, surgeon satisfaction, functional outcomes, complications, and cost-efficiency. The t-test will be used to compare continuous variables, and the chi-squared test will be used for variables.

Expected Outcome: The results of this RCT will provide insight into the effectiveness of using 3D printing and VR in periarticular fracture management. The use of 3D printing and VR in periarticular fracture management has shown promising results in previous studies, but their effectiveness and safety need to be evaluated through a robust RCT. The results of this trial will help determine the benefits and limitations of these new technologies in periarticular fracture management.