Randomised control trial on precision and performance of 3D-printed patient-specific surgical guides (PSSG) in resource-constrained environments in comparison to conventional free-hand surgical methods.

In spinal fusion, pedicle screws are utilized to stabilize the spine using a posterior approach. Traditional surgical techniques, like the insertion of a free-hand screw, mostly depend on the experience of the surgeon and anatomical landmarks.Pedicle screw insertion guided by images (Image guided surgery) can increase placement precision, but it is expensive.Research on patient-specific surgical guides (PSSG) made using that particular  patient’s scan data has demonstrated the need for reduced intra operative X-rays with comparable accuracy rates. 3D printed  PSSG also  reduces the  learning curve for the operating surgeon compared to conventional free hand technique. Our study is aimed at bringing out the advantages of 3D printed PSSG’s over traditional free hand technique especially in a resource constrained environment.Patients undergoing thoracic and lumbar pedicle screw fixation for traumatic and degenerative spinal disease , who satisfy the inclusion and exclusion criteria will be enrolled into 2 arms after randomization. Data will be collected after blinding and analyzed .