TY  - JOUR
TI  - Innovations in paediatric orthopaedics: a narrative review of precision, personalisation, and biological restoration
AU  - Bojić, Davor
AU  - Antičević, Darko
AU  - Bašković, Marko
AU  - Murn, Filip
PY  - 2026
JO  - Exploration of Musculoskeletal Diseases
VL  - 4
SP  - 1007129
DO  - 10.37349/emd.2026.1007129
UR  - https://www.explorationpub.com/Journals/emd/Article/1007129
AB  - Paediatric orthopaedics is currently witnessing a profound evolution, transitioning from traditional mechanical fixation toward a future defined by biological restoration and digital precision. The dynamic nature of the growing skeleton necessitates a “growth-aware” surgical philosophy to mitigate the lifelong burden on the child. This narrative review synthesises advancements across pivotal domains: advanced 3D imaging, virtual surgical planning, regenerative biotechnology (the “Diamond Concept”), and smart implant design, based on a rigorous analysis of 76 contemporary sources verified against Medline/PubMed databases. Innovations such as the EOS imaging system and AI-driven diagnostics have significantly reduced cumulative radiation exposure and inter-observer variability. The integration of 3D-printed patient-specific instrumentation and robotic assistance has elevated surgical fidelity in complex spinal and pelvic reconstructions. In the biological realm, the synergy of mesenchymal stem cells, BMPs, and bioactive scaffolds is providing solutions for recalcitrant defects. Furthermore, the advent of bioabsorbable magnesium alloys and internal motorized lengthening nails is effectively eliminating the need for secondary surgeries. The convergence of the “Digital Twin” paradigm with regenerative medicine offers a personalised trajectory for paediatric care. By embracing these advancements, clinicians can restore function while rigorously minimising the physical and psychological burden on the developing child.
ER  -