Transactions on Additive Manufacturing Meets Medicine
Vol. 7 No. 1 (2025): Trans. AMMM
https://doi.org/10.18416/AMMM.2025.25062076

3D Printing for Education and Instruction, ID 2076

A 3D printed hand model of Bennett’s and 5th metacarpal shaft fractures

Main Article Content

Trinette Wright (1) Techna, University Health Network), Stephanie Williams (1) Techna, University Health Network), Jimmy Qiu (University Health Network), Blake Murphy (1) Unity Health Toronto; 2) University of Toronto), Stefan O. P. Hofer (1) University Health Network; 2) University of Toronto), Joseph Catapano (1) Unity Health Toronto; 2) University of Toronto)

Copyright (c) 2025 Trinette Wright, Stephanie Williams; Jimmy Qiu; Blake Murphy, Stefan O. P. Hofer, Joseph Catapano

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

Abstract

Percutaneous fracture fixation of hand fractures using Kirschner wires is a difficult skill for learners to develop due to difficulties in spatial visualization, fracture alignment, fluoroscopic guidance, and instrument handling. Realistic models are required to improve surgical education and skill acquisition outside the operative setting. This study examines the utilization of 3D printing, silicone casting, and electromagnetic (EM) tracking to fabricate reproducible multi-material hand fracture models simulating Bennett’s and 5th metacarpal shaft fractures. CT images of a healthy hand were segmented to create 3D reference meshes for bones and skin. Artificial fractures were introduced and the skin mesh updated to reflect displacements. Bone meshes were modified for 3D printing and EM integration by incorporating features such as fracture bridging, through-holes for silicone adhesion, wire channels for sensor placement, registration fiducials, and a baseplate for mold alignment.

Article Details

How to Cite

Wright, T., Williams, S., Qiu, J., Murphy, B., Hofer, S. O. P., & Catapano, J. (2025). A 3D printed hand model of Bennett’s and 5th metacarpal shaft fractures. Transactions on Additive Manufacturing Meets Medicine, 7(1), 2076. https://doi.org/10.18416/AMMM.2025.25062076