Rapid prototyping-assisted fabrication of the customized metatarsophalangeal joint implant (SamKu) - A case report

摘要

Purpose - The main purpose of this paper is to report the successful treatment modality for patients suffering from arthritis of the metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ) of the foot which otherwise could not be treated through traditional surgeries. Design/methodology/approach - The unique capabilities of the computer-aided design and the rapid prototyping (RP) technology are used to develop the customized MTPJ implant (SamKu). Findings - This approach shows good results in the fabrication of the MTPJ implant. Postoperatively, the patient experienced normalcy in the movement of the MTPJ of the foot. Practical implications - Advanced technologies made it possible to fabricate the customized MTPJ implant (SamKu). The advantage of this approach is that the physical RP model assisted in designing the final metallic implant. It also helped in the surgical planning and the rehearsals. Originality/value - This case report illustrates the benefits of imaging/computer-aided manufacturing/RP to develop the customized implant and serve those patients who could not be treated in the traditional way. This is a pioneered attempt toward implementation of a customized implant for patients suffering from arthritis of the MTPJ.