Abstract
<jats:p>The aim of this study is to substantiate the use of an individualized titanium implant manufactured using additive technologies for prosthetic replacement of the proximal interphalangeal joints of the hand. The implant was produced using a Concept Laser M2 Cusing system (GE Additive, Germany) equipped with two 400 W lasers in a high-purity argon atmosphere (99.993%). A medical-grade Ti6Al4V ELI titanium alloy powder was used as the material. After printing, stress-relief heat treatment was performed (840°C with a 2-hour holding time followed by slow furnace cooling), as well as mechanical post-processing to achieve precise geometry and appropriate surface preparation. Individualized prosthetic replacement represents an alternative to arthrodesis, which limits joint mobility and may significantly reduce quality of life. In the presented clinical case, the use of a patient-specific implant enabled restoration of the anatomical configuration of the hand, reduction of pain, and improvement of functional outcomes. However, the optimal surgical strategy for hand osteoarthritis remains controversial. Reported complications following joint arthroplasty include iatrogenic deformities such as swan-neck and boutonnière deformities, painful neuromas, and a relatively high risk of nonunion (8–20%), as well as implant fracture or the need for hardware removal. The choice of fixation method also influences the complication profile. Alternatives include silicone, metal-plastic, or pyrocarbon implants, which can preserve joint motion and provide satisfactory pain relief. Thus, the use of individualized titanium implants manufactured by 3D printing is a promising direction in personalized reconstructive orthopedics. Further clinical follow-up is required to evaluate long-term outcomes and complication rates.</jats:p>