Bone Implant Stability Prediction via X-ray Texture Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for assessing implant stability in bone implantation, such as Resonance Frequency Analysis (RFA) and Periotest, lack clear correlation with bone density and cortical thickness, exhibit inter-operator and inter-instrument variability, and cannot predict stability before implantation, leading to potential implant failure and patient discomfort.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method using 2D or 3D X-ray scans to determine implant stability by computing a bone structural parameter from grey level variability in X-ray images, which correlates with trabecular bone texture, allowing prediction of both primary and secondary stability before implantation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If Resonance Frequency_analysis (RFA) or Periotest methods are used to assess implant stability, then implant stability can be measured after implantation, but these methods lack clear correlation with bone density and cortical thickness, exhibit inter-operator and inter-instrument variability, and cannot predict stability before implantation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing X-ray imaging and texture analysis of the bone site before implantation to predict implant stability. The method calculates a texture parameter from the X-ray image that correlates with bone density and cortical thickness, enabling prediction of primary and secondary stability outcomes before the implant is actually placed, thus avoiding the limitation of post-implantation-only assessment methods
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical measurement systems (RFA devices, Periotest hammers) with an imaging-based approach. Instead of using mechanical probes to measure stability after implantation, the method uses X-ray imaging combined with texture analysis algorithms to predict stability outcomes, eliminating inter-operator and inter-instrument variability associated with manual mechanical measurement techniques
2Reliability
If RFA or Periotest technologies are used, then implant stability can be assessed after implantation, but they do not provide effective and reliable data to predict stability of a planned implant, leading to potential implant failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables preliminary assessment of implant stability by analyzing X-ray images of the bone site before implantation. The texture parameter calculated from the X-ray image predicts both primary and secondary stability outcomes, allowing surgeons to make informed decisions about implant placement, loading protocols, and potential risks before the surgical procedure begins
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the stability assessment into two distinct predictive components: primary stability prediction based on bone density and cortical thickness characteristics, and secondary stability prediction based on trabecular bone texture. This segmentation allows for comprehensive preoperative planning that addresses both immediate and long-term stability concerns
3Measurement precision
If current stability assessment methods are used, then implant stability can be measured, but they cannot assess stability before implantation, causing patient discomfort by extended surgery times on implanted bones
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs all necessary stability assessments and predictions before the implantation procedure. By calculating the texture parameter from preoperative X-ray images and comparing it with reference values, the method determines expected primary and secondary stability outcomes in advance, eliminating the need for extended post-operative monitoring and reducing patient discomfort
Data Source
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AI summary
A method of determining an indicator for the stability of a bone implant comprises providing a two- or three-dimensional image of a bone at a location where a bone implant is planned. Then determining a bone structural parameter, which is typically representative of trabecular bone texture at said location, from the two- or three- dimensional image, by a texture analysis of a two- or three-dimensional grey scale image in a region of interest at said location where the bone implant is planned. Finally, an indicator for the stability of the planned bone implant after implantation is determined from the bone structural parameter and from implant stability data.