Integration of computer-based systems in foot and ankle surgery

Abstract

Foot and ankle surgery at the end of the 20th century was characterized by the use of sophisticated computerized preoperative and postoperative diagnostic and planning procedures [1, 9]. However, intra-operative computerized tools that assist the surgeon during his or her struggle for the planned optimal operative result are missing. This results in an intra-operative «black box» without optimal visualization, guidance and biomechanical assessment [9]. The future will be characterized by breaking up this intra-operative «black box». We will have more intra-operative tools to achieve the planned result [9]. Intra-operative three-dimensional imaging (ISO-C-3D), Computer Assisted Surgery (CAS) and Intra-operative Pedography (IP) are three possible innovations to realize the planned procedure intra-operatively [9]. These devices might be especially helpful for minimally invasive surgery. These novel methods are in clinical use at our institution for further development. This chapter especially analyzes the feasibility and potential clinical benefit of navigation for foot and ankle surgery. Since the intra-operative three-dimensional imaging (ISO-C-3D) and intra-operative pedography (IP) are two other innovations that are closely connected to navigation, these two methods are also described. © 2007 Springer Medizin Verlag Heidelberg.