Surgical Modeling System for Accurate Joint Replacement Planning
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current pre-operation techniques for joint replacement surgeries rely heavily on two-dimensional methods, which lack accuracy in determining the ideal position and effect of implant placement, leading to uncertainty and increased risks for both inexperienced and experienced surgeons.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for surgical modeling that uses a two-dimensional interface to create a three-dimensional representation of prostheses based on anatomical landmarks, allowing for the creation of procedure-based information for precise surgical planning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If two-dimensional methods are used for pre-operation planning, then the process is simple and quick, but the accuracy in determining ideal implant position and effect is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional acetate templates and X-ray overlays to three-dimensional volumetric data representation. The system creates 3D models of the acetabulum and prosthesis from multiple 2D images (AP pelvis X-ray, lateral X-ray, and optionally CT scans), enabling accurate determination of implant position, orientation, and effect in three-dimensional space. This dimensional change resolves the contradiction by providing precise spatial information while maintaining a systematic approach.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary computational system that processes multiple 2D images and anatomical data to generate 3D representations. This intermediary layer (the surgical planning system with image processing algorithms) bridges the gap between simple 2D imaging and complex 3D surgical planning, enabling accurate implant positioning without requiring direct complex 3D imaging procedures.
2Reliability
If three-dimensional modeling is implemented, then surgical planning accuracy is improved, but the complexity of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the complex surgical planning process into distinct manageable components: (1) acquisition of 2D images (AP pelvis X-ray, lateral X-ray), (2) identification and measurement of anatomical landmarks, (3) generation of 3D volumetric data, (4) creation of acetabular models, and (5) determination of implant position and effect. This segmentation reduces the perceived complexity by breaking down the overall system into sequential processing steps, each with specific inputs and outputs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates digital copies and representations of anatomical structures and prostheses in three-dimensional space. By generating 3D models from 2D images, the system creates virtual replicas that can be manipulated, measured, and analyzed without physical manipulation of actual bone or implant. This copying approach enables reliable surgical decision-making through virtual simulation while keeping the physical surgical field unchanged.
3Ease of operation
If traditional two-dimensional acetate templating is used, then the workflow is straightforward, but the ability to determine ideal implant position and effect is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical process of physical acetate template overlay and manual measurement with an automated computational system. The system automatically processes 2D images, identifies anatomical landmarks, generates 3D models, and calculates implant position and effect through algorithmic processing. This substitution maintains ease of operation through automated workflows while dramatically improving measurement precision through computational accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms by allowing the surgeon to review and verify the generated 3D models and measurements, then adjust the planning as needed. The system provides quantitative feedback on implant position, orientation, and expected effect, enabling iterative refinement of the surgical plan. This feedback loop maintains operational simplicity by providing clear, actionable information while improving precision through iterative optimization.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of surgical modeling is disclosed. A set of related two-dimensional (2D) anatomical images is displayed. A plurality of anatomical landmarks is identified on the set of related 2D anatomical images. A three-dimensional (3D) representation of at least one prosthesis is scaled to match a scale of the 2D anatomical images based at least in part on a relationship between the anatomical landmarks. 3D information from the at least one prosthesis along with information based on at least one of the plurality of anatomical landmarks is utilized to create procedure-based information. A system for surgical modeling is also disclosed. The system has a prosthesis knowledge-based information system, a patient anatomical-based information system, a user interface, and a controller. The controller has an anatomical landmark identifier, a prosthesis-to-anatomical-feature relator, and a procedure modeler.