A 3D simulation system for hip joint replacement planning

Abstract

We present a tool for hip joint replacement planning that allows the surgeon to rank the long-term stability of an implant, and we show the application of this tool in a clinical routine setting. The tool allows the surgeon to predict the load transmission of an implant to the patient-specific bone. It is used to select of a set of available implants the one that most closely replicates the physiological stress state in order to avoid stress shielding. Advanced simulation technology is combined with 3D visualization options to provide quick and intuitive understanding of the generated results. Interactive feedback rates and intuitive control mechanisms facilitate the finding of an optimal implant shape with respect to the patient's specific anatomy. By restricting to a predetermined implant position, which is in accordance with the selected position in a real surgery, the surgeon can quickly analyze a number of different implants under varying load conditions.