EFFECTIVENESS AND SAFETY OF PERSONALIZED 3D-PRINTED HIGH TIBIAL OSTEOTOMY IN ATHLETIC PATIENTS: A PROGNOSTIC STUDY

Abstract

Objective: To assess the effectiveness and safety of high tibial osteotomy (HTO) using personalized 3D-printed surgical guides in athletes with medial compartment osteoarthritis of the knee. Methods: In a comparative study from June 2020 to December 2021, 60 athletes were randomly assigned to either a control group, undergoing traditional open wedge HTO, or an observation group, receiving 3D-printed guide-assisted HTO. Metrics evaluated included surgical duration, blood loss, fluoroscopy counts, postoperative alignment improvements (MPTA, WBLR), and complication rates. Functional outcomes were measured through the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) score, Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain, and range of motion (ROM). Quality of life improvements were also assessed. Results: The observation group experienced shorter surgeries, less blood loss, and fewer fluoroscopies. Postoperative improvements in knee alignment were significantly better in the observation group, with lower complication rates. Functional outcomes, including HSS scores, were higher, and VAS scores lower, indicating better pain management and knee function. The quality of life was also significantly improved in the observation group. Conclusion: Personalized 3D-printed surgical guides for HTO in athletes provide superior outcomes in terms of surgical efficiency, safety, and functional recovery, highlighting their potential in enhancing sports medicine practices.