3D Bone Model Reconstruction from 2D Radiographs for Joint Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current orthopedic joint replacement surgeries face challenges in accurately restoring natural joint alignment due to limitations in preoperative imaging technologies, such as limited access to CT and MRI scans, data accuracy issues caused by bone and cartilage deterioration, and the inability of existing intraoperative tools to reliably gauge bone and cartilage loss, leading to poor functional outcomes and patient dissatisfaction.
Innovation Solution
The use of a deep learning network to analyze two-dimensional radiographic images captured from different transverse positions to identify bone aberrations and calculate corrective areas, allowing for the creation of patient-specific surgical plans and instruments that account for bone and soft tissue anatomy, thereby improving the accuracy of joint alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If CT scans and MRIs are used to survey patient anatomy, then measurement precision of bone and cartilage structure is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a three-dimensional digital copy of the patient's bone and cartilage anatomy from two-dimensional radiographic images. This digital model serves as a simplified representation that captures essential anatomical features without requiring complex CT or MRI scanning equipment, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining measurement precision for surgical planning
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical imaging systems (CT scanners, MRI machines) with a computational approach using two-dimensional radiographic images and three-dimensional reconstruction algorithms. This substitution eliminates the need for expensive, complex imaging equipment while achieving comparable anatomical measurement accuracy through mathematical modeling and digital reconstruction
2Loss of information
If CT scans and MRIs are scheduled a month or more before surgery, then comprehensive anatomical data is obtained, but loss of time occurs and anatomy may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary three-dimensional reconstruction and surgical planning using two-dimensional radiographic images that can be obtained closer to the surgical date. By creating accurate digital anatomical models from readily available radiographs rather than requiring advance CT/MRI scheduling, the system enables surgical planning to be completed just before the procedure, eliminating the month-long delay while maintaining comprehensive anatomical data
3Manufacturing precision
If patient-specific implants are created from preoperative surveying data, then manufacturing precision of implants is improved, but loss of time in data processing and instrument production increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a three-dimensional digital copy of the patient's anatomy from two-dimensional radiographic images, which can be processed rapidly using computational algorithms. This digital model enables quick generation of patient-specific implant designs and surgical instrument plans without the lengthy data acquisition and processing times associated with traditional CT or MRI-based workflows, thereby maintaining manufacturing precision while reducing time loss
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enhances the precision of joint alignment during surgeries, reducing the risk of premature implant wear and improving patient satisfaction by providing more accurate preoperative and intraoperative models of bone and cartilage conditions, even in cases where traditional imaging is not feasible.
Implementation Method 1
using a deep learning network to identify an area of a bone aberration from an input of at least two separate two-dimensional (2D) input images
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for calculating external bone loss for alignment of pre-diseased joints comprising: generating a three-dimensional (“3D”) computer model of an operative area from at least two two-dimensional (“2D”) radiographic images, wherein at least a first radiographic image is captured at a first position, and wherein at least a second radiographic image is captured at a second position, and wherein the first position is different than the second position; identifying an area of bone loss on the 3D computer model; and applying a surface adjustment algorithm to calculate an external missing bone surface fitting the area of bone loss.