Visualisation of articular motion in orthopaedics

Abstract

Shouder replacement surgery is difficult surgery, with a relatively large risk on limited post-operative range of motion for patients. Adaptations to the anatomy of joints by placing a prosthesis affects the articulation of the joint. In this thesis we present a software system that simulates and visualises these effects. By loading a CT-scan of the shoulder of a patient we can simulate the range of motion of the joint and visualize limitations as a result of rigid structures of the joint. Surgeons may set up an operation plan and see what the consequences of the operation will be for the range of motion of the patient. The thesis investigates aspects that are relevant for the system. We describe an algorithm to convert the scan data to bone models. In addition, a validation experiment is presented. A method for motion registration and visualisation of recorded kinematic data is presented. Finally, this thesis concerns the application of the system to different surgical problems, such as hip arthroplasty and shoulder fractures.