At Orthoca, we combine modern technology with specialized orthopedic care to give patients a new lease on life. In this article, we share the story of Gevorgyan, a young private driver with a serious problem in his hand.
Thanks to a 3D printed custom prosthesis, he can move again without pain and his mobility has been preserved. We spoke with Prof. Dr. Vanhees and Gevorgyan to hear their perspectives.
What was the problem Gevorgyan was struggling with?
Prof. Vanhees: “Gevorgyan was struggling with avascular necrosis of a bone (os lunatum) in his hand, a condition in which a bone dies due to a lack of blood supply. This caused severe pain and threatened to completely limit his mobility.
Traditional treatments, such as a wrist fusion, could relieve the pain, but would also limit the mobility of his wrist. For a young, active man like Gevorgyan, that was not an ideal solution.”
Gevorgyan: “I remember exactly when it happened. I was working in a bar at the time and had to move heavy barrels. One day I felt something go wrong in my wrist, but I thought it would go away on its own. In the meantime, I had started my own business as a private driver, mostly for airport transportation.
However, the pain persisted and became so bad that I could no longer do my job. Fortunately, my sister was able to take over my rides and put me out of a jam. My family doctor referred me to Orthoca, where Prof. Vanhees quickly determined that this would not go away overnight.”
How did 3D printing help with this treatment?
Prof. Vanhees: “We opted for a 3D printed prosthesis, fully customized for Gevorgyan. A 3D scan of his healthy hand provided the basis to create the most accurate replica of the damaged bone.
Thanks to our collaboration with CADskills, we were able to print the prosthesis in titanium, a strong and bio-compatible material with excellent body acceptance.”
Gevorgyan: “Prof. Vanhees took the time to explain everything very clearly, which helped me make a good choice. I am extremely grateful to him for suggesting the solution with 3D printing. The idea that I would no longer be able to move my hand and wrist normally worried me a lot.”
How did the surgery go and what is the result?
Prof. Vanhees: “During surgery, we replaced the damaged bone with the prosthesis. Thanks to the precision of the 3D technology, the prosthesis fit perfectly. Gevorgyan felt immediate pain relief and was able to quickly begin rehabilitation exercises.”
Gevorgyan: “I was awake during the operation and could follow everything on a screen. I didn’t find that scary at all, it was especially fascinating. Prof. Vanhees also told me what was happening, very impressive. Almost immediately after the operation, I felt that I was doing better.
Now, three months later, I can already move my hand pretty well, and it’s getting better every day. I’m also back to work, thankfully!”
What makes this treatment so special?
Prof. Vanhees: “The uniqueness of this technique is that it not only relieves pain, but also largely preserves freedom of movement. This opens new doors for patients who previously would have had to choose between pain relief and mobility.”
Gevorgyan: “I am especially happy that this option exists. Your hands are so important in everyday life. You only realize how essential they are when you are in pain and can no longer do things.”
Interested in learning more about Prof. Dr. Matthias Vanhees and his expertise in hand surgery or looking for consultation opportunities? Visit his profile page to learn more about his specialties and consultation hours: Prof. Dr. Matthias Vanhees | Orthoca