Virtual Orthopedic Fixator Display on Digital X-rays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for correcting bone deformities using external fixators are cumbersome and inaccurate, requiring time-consuming manual measurements and assumptions about ring perpendicularity, which can lead to errors in strut adjustment prescriptions.
Innovation Solution
A computer system that generates graphical representations of orthopedic treatment devices superimposed on digital medical images, allowing users to input motions and adjustments interactively, thereby facilitating accurate planning and optimization of bone deformity correction treatments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual measurements and calculations are used for strut adjustment prescriptions, then the treatment can be performed with simple equipment, but the process becomes time-consuming and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement methods (rulers, protractors on x-ray prints) with a computer-based digital system that automatically calculates strut adjustments. The system uses digital x-ray images and computational algorithms to determine precise measurements and prescriptions, eliminating manual calculation errors and reducing time requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy of the physical x-ray images and uses this digital representation for measurements and calculations. By working with digital copies rather than physical prints, the system enables automated processing while maintaining measurement accuracy, thus resolving the contradiction between precision and time consumption.
2Ease of operation
If assumptions about ring perpendicularity are made to simplify the process, then the device complexity is reduced, but measurement accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical assumption of perfect perpendicularity with a computational approach that calculates the actual orientation of rings relative to bone segments using digital image analysis. The system determines the true geometric relationships through algorithmic processing rather than relying on simplifying assumptions, thereby maintaining ease of operation while improving prescription accuracy.
3Measurement precision
If multiple measurements and calculations are performed to ensure accuracy, then measurement precision improves, but the complexity of the procedure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate measurement and calculation steps into a single integrated computer-based system. Rather than performing individual measurements with different tools and separate calculations, the system combines image acquisition, measurement, and prescription generation into one unified digital workflow, reducing procedural complexity while maintaining or improving accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
In some embodiments, a synthetic (virtual) orthopedic treatment device (e.g. a virtual external fixator representing a physical fixator attachable to a patients anatomic structure) is displayed concurrently in two views (e.g. anterior-posterior and lateral) along corresponding digital medical images (e.g. X-rays), and rotation/translation user input received along one of the images is used to concurrently control both displays of the orthopedic treatment device to reflect the rotation/translation user input.