Case report
Three-dimensional printed calcaneal prosthesis following total calcanectomy

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijscr.2015.02.037Get rights and content
Under a Creative Commons license
open access

Highlights

  • We reported the first case to use 3D printing technology for calcaneal prosthesis.

  • Short-term outcomes were satisfactory without any major complications or pain.

  • Differently-printed surface of the prosthesis helps to stabilize the prosthesis.

  • 3D-printed prosthesis is a viable reconstruction option after calcanectomy.

Abstract

Introduction

The majority of patients with extremity sarcoma can be surgically treated without amputation. However, limb-salvage surgery for foot sarcomas including the calcaneus remains challenging.

Presentation of case

A 71-year-old man presented with a 5-year history of right heel persistent pain. Imaging studies revealed an osteolytic, destructive and highly metabolic lesion in the right calcaneus. Computed tomography guided core needle biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of grade 2 chondrosarcoma. A total calcanectomy was performed, and the defect was reconstructed with a patient matched three-dimensional printed titanium calcaneal prosthesis. Intra-operatively, ligaments including the Achilles tendon, and plantar fascia were reattached. The post-operative course was uneventful, and at the 5-month clinical follow-up, the patient was fully weightbearing, with a mobile ankle without pain.

Discussion

This case is the first to use additive manufacturing to create a prosthetic calcaneus. The complex peri-calcaneal articular surfaces and reattachment of tendinous structures facilitate efforts to stabilize the prosthesis in situ.

Conclusion

Three-dimensional-printed prosthesis of the calcaneus is a viable alternative to amputation.

Keywords

Three-dimensional printed prosthesis
Calcaneal sarcoma
Limb-salvage surgery

Cited by (0)

This study was conducted at St. Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne, in accordance with the World Medical Association Declaration of Helsinki. The patient in this case report was informed that data, radiographs, and photographs from the case would be submitted for publication and gave his written consent. We declare that we have no conflicts of interest.