3D Joint Parameter Visualization for Ligament Balancing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems and methods for visualizing joint parameters, such as ligament laxity, in relation to joint balancing during joint replacement procedures are difficult to use, time-consuming, and ineffective for precise implant planning.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method and system for generating a three-dimensional graphical user interface (GUI) that visualizes joint parameters, including gap parameter information and delta parameter information, to facilitate better understanding and utilization of ligament laxity data in joint balancing procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional two-dimensional methods are used to display gap measurements, then the system is simple to implement, but the visualization is difficult to understand and time-consuming for physicians
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms traditional two-dimensional gap measurement displays into a three-dimensional cube visualization. Each axis of the cube represents a different gap measurement (medial extension, lateral extension, medial flexion, lateral flexion), allowing physicians to visualize all four measurements simultaneously in spatial relationship. This dimensional transformation makes the data intuitive to understand while maintaining computational simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent embeds multiple levels of information within the three-dimensional cube structure. The cube itself represents the overall joint balance status, while internal elements such as colored regions, cross-sections, and highlighted faces provide detailed gap measurement information. This nesting allows comprehensive data presentation without overwhelming the physician with separate displays.
2Adaptability or versatility
If detailed gap parameter information is provided in traditional formats, then completeness of data is achieved, but it is difficult to effectively use in joint balancing procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different visual properties to different regions of the three-dimensional cube based on the gap measurement data. Specific faces, edges, or volumes of the cube are highlighted, colored, or marked to indicate areas of imbalance or particular clinical significance. This local differentiation allows physicians to quickly identify which specific gap measurements require attention during joint balancing procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The three-dimensional cube serves as an intermediary between raw gap measurement data and clinical decision-making. Rather than presenting numerical values alone or complex tabular data, the system translates measurements into a spatial representation that intuitively conveys joint balance status, guiding physicians through the complexity of implant planning and bone resection decisions.
3Productivity
If multiple gap measurements are displayed separately, then measurement precision is maintained, but the time required to review patient data increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines four separate gap measurements (medial extension, lateral extension, medial flexion, lateral flexion) into a single integrated three-dimensional cube visualization. Each measurement is represented as a dimension or feature of the cube, allowing physicians to review all gap parameters simultaneously rather than sequentially. This merging maintains the precision of individual measurements while dramatically improving review efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are disclosed for receiving imaging data of a joint, determining gap parameter information based on the imaging data, generating a graphical user interface (GUI) configured to display a three-dimensional element comprising a plurality of sub-elements, determining which of the plurality of sub-elements correspond to the determined gap parameter information, and generating a display of the GUI, wherein at least one sub-element is associated with the determined gap parameter information.