Enhancing Cervical Foraminotomy Outcomes With Patient-Specific 3D Anatomical Models: A Comparative Study.

INTRODUCTION

Cervical foraminotomy is a procedure used to treat patients with radiculopathy. While the procedure can be performed using a minimally invasive technique, achieving complete visualization of relevant anatomy can be challenging. This study explores the use of patient-specific three-dimensional (3D) printed anatomical models, created from advanced medical imaging data, for preoperative planning and intraoperative guidance in cervical foraminotomy by comparing fluoroscopy time, operative time, estimated blood loss volume, and functional improvement.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective case-controlled study comparing patients who underwent cervical foraminotomy with the aid of a 3D model to those who received standard of care.

RESULTS

Our findings indicate a statistically significant reduction in fluoroscopy time for the 3D model group (21.8 seconds vs 49.0 seconds, p<0.05). Although functional outcomes for the 3D model group showed a trend towards significance (p=0.14), no significant differences were observed in operative time or estimated blood loss (p=0.25 and p=0.31, respectively).

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that patient-specific 3D models can enhance the understanding of complex anatomical structures and may improve surgical outcomes in cervical foraminotomy.