Novel 3D hexapod computer-assisted orthopaedic surgery system for closed diaphyseal fracture reduction

Background: Long-bone fractures are very common in trauma centers. The conventional Arbeitsgemeindschaft fur Osteosynthesefragen (AO) technique contributes to most fracture healing problems, and external fixation technology also has several disadvantages, so new techniques are being explored. Method: A novel hexapod computer-assisted fracture reduction system based on a 3D-CT image reconstruction process is presented for closed reduction of long-bone diaphyseal fractures. A new reduction technique and upgraded reduction device are described and the whole system has been validated. Results: Ten bovine femoral fracture models were used with random fracture patterns. Tests results were as follows: residual deviation 1.24+0.65mm for the axial deflection, 1.19+0.37mm for the translation, 2.34+1.79° for the angulation, and 2.83+0.9° for the rotation. Conclusion: The reduction mechanism has the advantages of high positioning, reduction and computer accuracy, and intra-operative stability for both patients and surgical team. With further investigation, it could be applied in many kinds of long-bone diaphyseal fractures.