Sixty minutes of surgery time saved in neurotrauma case following car accident

A 27-year-old male presented with extensive facial trauma following a road traffic collision. The fracture plane crossed multiple portions of anatomy from the maxilla superiorly to the frontal bone. Given the extensive fracture caused by the accident, treatment planning was considered difficult utilizing the 2D CT imagery alone. In addition, the case required collaboration and planning from both neurological and cranio-maxillofacial teams.

Case

A full-scale model was created from the patient’s CT scans. The surgeons used the 3D printed model to choose, measure and prepare all the required equipment for surgery. The model was utilized within a multidisciplinary planning meeting to mutually conclude on the best surgical approach.

Outcome

Sixty minutes of surgical time was saved as a result of using the 3D model in the planning. This significant reduction in operative time helped to elevate the patient's time in care in the form of faster treatment, reduced OR time with less invasive surgery, a more rapid recovery and reduced complications. Only 2 surgical trays needed to be sterilized, reduced from 6, as a result of choosing equipment prior to surgery, adding to the hard cost savings realized by the hospital.

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