Computer Assisted Surgery for Total Hip Replacements
To make sure that the implants are correctly associated to the unique anatomy of the patient, computer assisted surgery (CAS) technology is preferred. Correct alignment may benefit the new joint to potentially last longer and feel more original.
The surgery includes replacing the femur and the acetabulum by using an artificial prosthetic device which comprises of three parts.
- Metal stem replaces the neck of the thigh-bone.
- Cup replaces the hip socket
- Metal or ceramic ball replaces the imperfect head of the thigh bone and helps to link the cup and stem and keep it well-balanced.
CAS technology has a common monitoring system which consists of instruments with LED, infra-red navigation camera and a computer having specialized navigational software.
It has a computer software which produces a practical model of the patient’s hip and serves as a guide for the surgeon. The location is tracked by the motion of Smart Instruments throughout the procedure. The software shows real-time on the practical model of the Smart Instruments and implant components with reference to the patients anatomy.
Patient registration is the process where the surgeon uses a Smart Instrument pointer to touch off on the proper model of the patient’s hip. The software provides the surgeon all information including lines, measurements, angles along with the proper location of Smart Instruments. All of it is implemented in real time.
Computer Assisted Surgery for Total Knee Replacements
A digital image is created and this can serve as a map for each procedure. The image can be termed as a guidance during the surgery. For knowing the position, accuracy and attitude the surgical instruments can be incorporated.
For accurate imaging modalities intraoperatively, they can be divided into three types:
- Preoperatively imaged techniqueIt requires information from CT/MRI scan of the knee.
- Intraoperative imaging technique During surgery fluoroscopy is used to help in mapping of the knee.
- Image-free techniqueThis is the most recent technique in which an anatomical model that is fixed in the software is raised by the process called bone morphing.
Every process said above requires the registration process. This is a built in sequence where a surgeon identifies the key anatomical structure for the bone. With the help of computer’s tracking system there is a tracking marker on the bone. Once registration is completed then the surgery can be proceeded.
