Joint Element Shape Correction via Computer-Assisted Navigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for correcting joint elements in surgeries, such as hip joint surgeries, lack the ability to accurately compare the desired shape with the actual shape of joint elements, making it difficult to achieve the necessary abrasion depth for preventing bone collisions and restoring the natural shape of joint elements.
Innovation Solution
A computer-assisted planning assistance method that detects and compares the actual shape of joint elements with their intended shape, using navigated and tracked pointers to plan the necessary abrasion depth, ensuring high accuracy in contour fidelity and abrasion navigation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional navigation methods using pre-acquired data are used, then the surgical procedure can be performed, but the accuracy of intra-operative shape checking and abrasion depth control is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of the joint element's actual shape using a navigated pointer before the abrasion procedure begins. This preliminary action captures the initial geometry data, which is then stored and used for comparison throughout the surgical procedure to guide abrasion depth and monitor shape changes in real-time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously compares the detected actual shape with the intended target shape during the abrasion procedure. This feedback mechanism provides real-time information about deviations from the desired geometry, enabling the surgeon to adjust abrasion depth and maintain contour fidelity. The navigation system updates the shape comparison dynamically as abrasion progresses.
2Manufacturing precision
If spherical templates are used to check femoral head sphericity, then some shape verification is possible, but systematic comparison with intended shape and monitoring of abrasion depth to necessary accuracy is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical spherical templates with a computer-based navigation system that uses a navigated pointer to detect and digitally represent the joint element's shape. This substitution transforms manual, qualitative shape assessment into automated, quantitative measurement with precise abrasion depth control through computer-assisted planning and real-time comparison.
3Reliability
If no intra-operative shape detection is performed, then the surgical workflow remains simple, but the ability to navigate abrasion depth and ensure contour fidelity is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The navigation system acts as an intermediary between the surgeon and the joint element during the abrasion procedure. The system mediates the interaction by providing real-time shape feedback and abrasion depth guidance without requiring the surgeon to directly measure or calculate geometric parameters manually. This intermediary system enhances reliability while maintaining ease of operation through intuitive navigation interfaces.
Data Source
AI summary
A planning assistance method for correcting joint elements is provided. In accordance with the method, the actual shape of at least one part of the joint element which is of interest is detected. The actual shape is compared with an intended shape, and the comparison data is used to plan the abrasion of joint element parts.