Application of Personalized Three-Dimensional Printing for Shoulder Joint Prosthesis in the Treatment of Shoulder Joint Tuberculosis: A Case Report

Abstract Background: This article presents an application of the use of a personalized three-dimensional (3D)-printed reverse shoulder prosthesis to be used in a reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) for a patient with tuberculosis of the shoulder joint. Background: Patient concerns: A 37-year-old female, who suffered a trauma on her left shoulder 17 years ago, reported significant worsening pain and limited physical activity within the last 6 months. The left shoulder joint activity was clearly restricted. Diagnosis: Her clinical manifestations, bone changes in shoulder joint, and imaging results were all consistent with extended exposure to tuberculosis of the shoulder joint. Interventions: For this patient, a personalized 3D-printed titanium alloy shoulder joint prosthesis was used in the RTSA. The patient’s stability was regularly monitored and followed up after operation. During pre-operation, post-operation, and follow-up, the scores of ASES, Neer Shoulder score, and Constant-Murley Shoulder were evaluated. Results: 3D shoulder prosthesis was successfully implanted into the patient and complete anatomic reconstruction was performed intraoperatively. ASES, Neer, and Constant-Murley scores were gradually improved on follow-up. The X-ray image showed good bone healing and no changes in the position of the prosthesis seven and a half years post-operation. The functionality of the shoulder joint was well restored and no restrictions were found in activities of daily living. Conclusion: Personalized 3D-printed shoulder joint prosthesis is very effective in the treatment of advanced tuberculosis of the shoulder joint. 3D-printed technology may be a novel and efficient method for similar arthroplasties and severe bone defects.