The innovative application of 3D-printed spinal braces in post-percutaneous vertebroplasty care for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures: A retrospective study.

BACKGROUND

3D printed braces can be customized to fit the patient's physical characteristics, which can improve the patient's wearing experience and obtain better clinical efficacy. To the best of our knowledge, no study has reported the use of 3D printed spinal braces after percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) in patients with osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCF). This study was designed to explore the clinical outcomes of wearing a 3D printed spinal brace or a conventional spinal brace in the treatment of OVCF patients after PVP.

METHODS

This study collected retrospectively the clinical outcomes of patients who wore a 3D printed spinal brace (Observation group) or conventional spinal brace (Control group) after PVP for OVCF in a single center from June 2018 to June 2023. The baseline and clinical data were compared between the two groups before operation, and at 2 days, 2 week, 1 month, 6 months after operation.

RESULTS

The baseline data were not significantly different between the two groups (P > 0.05). The VAS and ODI at 2 weeks and 1 month after surgery were significantly lower in the observation group than in the control group (P < 0.05). The vertebral body compression ratio (VCR) at 1 and 6 months after surgery was significantly higher in the observation group than in the control group (P < 0.05). The satisfaction score and compliance rate of patients were significantly higher in the observation group than in the control group (P < 0.05). The incidence of vertebral re-fracture was not significantly different between the two groups (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

In the treatment of OVCF patients after PVP, 3D printed braces can improve the early postoperative residual pain of patients, promote functional recovery and increase the vertebral compression ratio compared with traditional braces. The tolerance and patient satisfaction of 3D printed braces are better than that of traditional braces.