3D Printing in Orthopedic Surgery in Alaska

3D printing is transforming orthopedic surgery across multiple applications. Alaska surgeons use 3D-printed anatomical models for preoperative planning of complex fractures and deformity corrections, custom surgical cutting guides for precise bone cuts during joint replacement, patient-specific titanium implants for revision surgery and complex reconstruction, and 3D-printed external fixation components. This technology is particularly valuable in Alaska where complex cases may require meticulous preoperative planning to minimize surgical time and optimize outcomes.