Application of the polystyrene model made by 3-D printing rapid prototyping technology for operation planning in revision lumbar discectomy

Conclusion Using the 3-D printing technology before revision lumbar discectomy may reduce the operation time and the perioperative blood loss. There does not appear to be a benefit to using the technology with respect to clinical outcomes. Future prospective studies are needed to further elucidate the efficacy of this emerging technology.