Abstract: Objective To investigate the application of 3D printing and digital technology in preoperative assessment and
planning of internal fixation surgery for complex tibial plateau fracture. Methods Complex tibial plateau fractures and
commonly used plates for tibial plateau were imaged using computed tomography (CT) to reconstruct the 3D fracture and
plate models. The 3D models were used to perform virtual reduction and preoperative planning of internal fixation surgery
with the most appropriate plates assisted by the 3D library of plates. According to the optimal plan, the 3D physical models of
tibial plateau fractures and plates were 3D printed to simulate internal fixation operation. The effects of internal fixation were
compared between the virtual surgery and the simulated surgery based on the 3D models. Results The effects of internal
fixation in the simulated surgery based on the 3D models were consistent with those of the virtual surgery. No significant
difference was found in the screw length between the two surgeries. Conclusion The combination of 3D printing and digital
design can improve the effects of internal fixation for complex tibial plateau fractures.