A classification proposal for computer-assisted knee systems

Abstract

Computer-Assisted Surgery (CAS) combines various enabling technologies to help surgeons meet and exceed quality requirements in performing knee surgery. Emerging CAS systems for the knee already include applications for TKR, ACL reconstruction and tibial osteotomies. In this paper we propose a general scheme to classify computer-assisted knee systems currently in use and under development, with an emphasis on surgical navigation systems. A literature review and available commercialized product analyses allowed us to sort the different computer-assisted systems in several categories. We proposed a classification scheme relies upon medical criteria instead of solely technical criteria (such as localizer properties and computer specifics). New concepts in computer-assisted surgery can easily fit into this classification framework.