TissueDB/Simulators/Tibial Shaft Transverse Fracture Simulator
General Information
The Tibial Shaft Transverse Fracture Simulator is a data-driven, gender-specific orthopedic surgical simulator for practising Schanz screw placement in external fixation of tibial shaft fractures. Clear cellophane wrapped around slightly distracted 3D printed proximal and distal fracture fragments simulates the soft tissue envelope and permits visual inspection for targeted self-assessment by the learner. The vise clamps position the fracture ends with 2.0–3.0 mm distraction while maintaining proper alignment, simulating a fracture with restored angulation and rotation.
This work is funded by a grant from the Intuitive Foundation.[1]
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| General Information | Data-driven, gender-specific orthopaedic simulator for practising Schanz screw placement in external fixation of tibial shaft fractures. Two 3D printed proximal and distal fracture fragments are positioned with 2–3 mm distraction in vise clamps. Clear cellophane simulates the soft tissue envelope and permits visual inspection for learner self-assessment. Funded by the Intuitive Foundation. |
| Features and Basic Operation | Not stated in source |
| Current Development Status | First pass clinical |
| Estimated Build Time and Cost | 15–30 minutes (assembly only; 3D printing time separate), Total ~$50–80 USD assembly cost (excluding powered surgical drill): vise clamps $34 USD or G-clamps alternative $20–28 USD; 2× 3D-printed bone models $10–20 USD via print on demand; cellophane roll $3–10 USD. |
| Specialized Tools and Equipment | Powered orthopedic surgical drill compatible with 5.0 mm self-drilling Schanz screws; Chuck key |
| Version | Not stated in source |
| Development Team Contact Information | Tibial Fracture Fixation Team |
Tissues
| Tissue | Qty | Material | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cortical bone (proximal tibial shaft) | 1 | 3D printed PLA bone model (Model 1) (3D printed bone) | $5–10 USD per model[2] | Proximal fracture fragment; semi-engraved model number, gender symbol, and drilling direction arrows on base. STL files: SELF module distribution page. |
| Cortical bone (distal tibial shaft) | 1 | 3D printed PLA bone model (Model 2) (3D printed bone) | $5–10 USD per model[2] | Distal fracture fragment; female tibial bone models under revision. STL files: SELF module distribution page. |
| Soft tissue envelope | 1 roll | Clear cellophane wrap | $3–10 USD per roll[3] | Simulates soft tissue overlying fracture fragments; permits visual inspection for self-assessment |
Structural Parts
| Part Name | Qty | Material | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2-in-1 multifunction bench vise clamp | 2 | Aluminium alloy, 360-degree rotary | ~$17 USD each | Suggested per user feedback. Easier to use and cheaper overall than table clamps + G-clamps. Imported; allow 2 weeks delivery. |
| G-clamps (alternative) | 4 | Standard | $5–7 USD each (4-pack)[4] | Alternative configuration: use 4 G-clamps with 2 standard vise clamps if 2-in-1 clamps unavailable |
Build Instructions
Phase 1: Simulator Assembly
Source: Setup video at https://youtu.be/NTZxXlC3PBQ
Step 1. Position two vise clamps on a table approximately 25 cm apart and open the jaws of each vise clamp.
Step 2. Wrap clear cellophane around the 3D Printed Adult Tibial Bone Models 1 and 2 held by an assistant.
Step 3. Distract the proximal and distal fragments of the wrapped simulator by 2–3 mm.
Step 4. Place Model 1 (the proximal fragment) into the left vise clamp and Model 2 (the distal fragment) into the right vise clamp. Each vise attachment should be centred on the platform overlying the threaded screw (or exposed threaded screw) that connects the jaws of the vise clamp.
Step 5. Use the two vise attachments of the simulator to gauge the distance between the left and right vise clamps. Adjust the position of the vise clamps and then secure each vise clamp to the table.
Step 6. Turn each vise handle until the jaws are clamping each model securely. Confirm that the proximal and distal fragments are distracted by 2–3 mm but are otherwise properly aligned to simulate a fracture with restored angulation and rotation.
Step 7. The simulator simulates the left tibia. Confirm proper orientation by checking the two semi-engraved drilling direction arrows on the base of each model. The drilling direction arrows of both models should point medial-to-lateral.
Step 8. Push on each model near the fracture line in a medial-to-lateral and anterior-to-posterior direction to verify stability before drilling. If the model moves, re-tighten all handles of each vise clamp for a stronger grip.
Phase 2: Drill Assembly and Testing
Any powered orthopedic surgical drill that is compatible with 5.0 mm diameter self-drilling Schanz screws can be used for this skills training module.
Step 1. Obtain a powered surgical drill and chuck key (e.g., Arbutus Medical HEX Drill Kit) and a 5.0 mm self-drilling Schanz screw.
Step 2. Follow the surgical drill manufacturer's instructions to assemble the drill and insert a 5.0 mm self-drilling Schanz screw using the chuck key. If using the Arbutus Medical HEX Drill Kit, follow the video instructions.
A sterile person is NOT required to assemble the drill for simulation training.
Step 3. Test the surgical drill by squeezing the on/off trigger to confirm that the drill is ready for use. If using the Arbutus Medical HEX Drill Kit, push the forward drilling direction switch on the right side of the drill for clockwise rotation. The Schanz screw tip should rotate clockwise when pointing away from the operator.
References
- ↑ Any research, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this work are those of the author(s), and not of the Intuitive Foundation.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 3D-printed medical bone model pricing via on-demand services (May 2026): typical $5–10 USD per model on Craftcloud and Treatstock platforms ($0.10–$0.50 per cubic centimeter for FDM PLA); Alemayehu et al. 2021 documented $7 per 3D-printed femur model.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 Clear cellophane wrap retail pricing, Walmart product listings (May 2026): American Greetings 30 sq.ft. $3.48 USD; Tripumer 1 Roll $10.00 USD. Available at walmart.com/c/kp/cellophane-wraps.
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 Heavy Duty G-Clamp 4 in / 100mm 4-pack retail pricing, Amazon listings (May 2026): typical 4-pack price $18–28 USD for 4 units. Available at amazon.com.
| Alternative names | Tibial Fracture External Fixation Simulator Schanz Screw Placement Simulator External Fixation Simulator External Fixation Trainer Tibial Fracture Fixation Simulator Tibial Shaft Fracture Model |
|---|
| Authors | Medical Makers, Arturopelayo |
|---|---|
| License | CC-BY-SA-4.0 |
| Cite as | Medical Makers, Arturopelayo (2021–2026). "TissueDB/Simulators/Tibial Shaft Transverse Fracture Simulator". Appropedia. Retrieved June 4, 2026. |