Head of Neurology Willows Veterinary Centre & Referral Service Solihull, United Kingdom
Due to the broader availability of 3D printing and CAD (Computer Assisted Design) software it has been possible to develop patient-specific drill templates for bicortical spinal pedicle screw placement. 3D patient-specific drill guide technique has been used in patients with vertebral fractures, C1-C2 instability/subluxations, wobbler syndrome and in cases requiring thoracolumbar and lumbosacral stabilization. The post-operative CT scans performed in the cases treated showed highly accurate screw placement using this technique with minimal pedicle breach. This technique provides the invaluable advantage of allowing planning of the optimal screw trajectory and size prior to the surgery being performed. In addition to provide better fixation and osteosynthesis strength, the use of 3D patient-specific drill guide can reduce the surgical time and the morbidity of such procedures.
