Personalized three-dimensional printed polyether-ether-ketone prosthesis for reconstruction after subtotal removal of chronic clavicle osteomyelitis A case report

Rationale: Three-dimensional (3D) printing has attracted wide attention for its potential and abilities in the assistance of surgical planning and the development of personalized prostheses. We herewith report a unique case of chronic clavicle osteomyelitis treated with a two-stage subtotal clavicle reconstruction using a 3D printed polyether-ether-ketone (PEEK) prosthesis. Patient concerns: A 23-year-old Chinese female presented to our clinic complaining about a progressive pain of her right clavicle for about 1 year. Diagnoses: Chronic clavicle osteomyelitis confirmed by percutaneous biopsy and lesion biopsy. Interventions: This patient accepted a long-term conservative treatment, which did not gain satisfactory outcomes. Thus, a subtotal removal and two-stage reconstruction of the right clavicle with a 3D-printed polyether-ether-ketone prosthesis stabilized by screw fixation system was performed. Outcomes: At 2-year follow-up, complete pain relief and satisfactory functional recovery of her right shoulder were observed. Lessons: Personalized 3D printed prosthesis is an effective and feasible method for reconstruction of complex bone defects.