Research Status and Application Prospects of Digital Technology in Orthopaedics

Abstract

In the last 10 years, basic and clinical research in orthopaedics has developed rapidly. Understanding of orthopaedic disorders involves not only routine diagnosis, but also the pursuit of highly efficient and accurate three-dimensional imaging of the intra-and extra-medullary distribution, form and structure of orthopaedic disorders, thus allowing scientific evaluation of the indications for surgery, drawing up of the best surgical plan, minimization of operative trauma and the earliest possible restoration of limb function. Meanwhile, the most important type of basic research, which was previously biomechanical research, has gradually become computational biomechanics based on in vitro cadaver experiments. This review aims to summarize the research status and application prospects of digital technology in orthopaedics, including virtual reality technology, reverse engineering and rapid prototyping techniques, computational biomechanics, computer navigation technology and management of digitization of medical records.

Effect of sustentaculum screw placement on outcomes of intra-articular calcaneal fracture osteosynthesis: A prospective cohort study using 3D CT

“…The common 3D display technique including VR imaging can provide a global visualization of the calcaneus [20]. Two-dimensional MPR images could show an additional perspective which could improve depiction of the subtalar joint [21,22]. Based on those images, the present study confirmed the placement of screws and divided the cases into three groups as already noted.…”

Ceramics and ceramic coatings in orthopaedics

“…However, with the advent of higher precision equipment, building of micron and submicron features is on the horizon [643]. Continued development of these technologies will pave the way for their use in many reconstructive or arthroplastic procedures, including trauma [644], oral [645] , cranio-maxillofacial [646], and spinal [647] surgeries, and ultimately total joint replacement [648].…”

Comparison of plain radiography and CT in postoperative evaluation of ankle fractures

“…13,14,19 Therefore, the application of CT images can be extended widely. 20 At present, the CT postprocessing technique was sufficiently accepted and used in preoperative planning of ankle fractures 21 ; however, no studies have presented the value of CT images in the postoperative assessment of ankle fractures.…”