Computer-assisted femoral head resurfacing

Femoral head resurfacing (FHR) is an alternative to total hip replacement (THR) and is particularly suitable for the younger, more active patients. However, this procedure is more difficult than THR, the mechanical jigs routinely used to align the implant produce significant variability in implant placement, and proper positioning process is time-consuming. This paper is concerned with the construction of mathematical model of femoral head and neck and a computer-assisted femoral head resurfacing system. On the basis of numerical optimization theory, a series of mathematical equations are derived to describe the femoral head and neck. By adopting techniques and tools such as optical tracking, numerical analysis, and computer graphics, a 3D digital model of femoral head and neck is reconstructed, and a FHR system is developed. With the aid of this software, visualization and pin placement can be easily achieved. Experimental results in this study show that the FHR system provides a useful tool for performing the femoral head resurfacing surgery quickly and accurately.