Objective: To evaluate the accuracy of ventral slot creation in canine cadavers with a three-dimensional (3D)-printed drill guide compared to the freehand technique.
Study design: Ex vivo study.
Sample population: Eight canine cadavers (23.4-39.8 kg).
Methods: Computed tomography (CT) data was used to create patient-specific 3D-printed surgical guides for ventral slot creation. Intervertebral sites were randomized to undergo either a guided (n = 12) or freehand (n = 12) ventral slot by a novice surgery resident. Postoperative CT images were used to compare ventral slot dimensions, shape, and position.
Results: Free-hand ventral slots were significantly shorter than the intended dimensions (p < .01). Dimensions of the guide-assisted ventral slots were not statistically different from the planned dimensions (p = .88, p = .72). Use of the guides resulted in improved accuracy for ventral slot positioning relative to midline and slot shape (difference in coefficient of variations, 32%, and 40%, respectively).
Conclusion: Ventral slot dimensions were more accurate when created with the patient-specific 3D-printed guide compared to the freehand technique.
Clinical significance: Use of a 3D-printed patient specific surgical guide improves accuracy of ventral slot creation in canine cadavers and improves surgical precision when used by a single novice surgical resident. The results of this study support evaluation of the guides in small breed cadavers and live patients.
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