Preliminary report: Accuracy between Computed Tomography, three-dimensional model and Rapid Prototyping model for hip joint surgery

This paper discusses on the measurement aspects of Rapid Prototyping (RP) model in the hip joint orthopaedic surgery. Computed Tomography (CT) patient scan data with a pelvic fracture was obtained in a Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) format. Mimics software was used to process the data. Threshold and region of interest tools were used to prepare the three-dimensional (3D) digital model. Artefacts and noise distortions were removed manually before generating the 3D digital model. Then, the 3D digital model was converted to Standard Triangulation Language (STL) file. RP medical model was successfully produced using a Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) machine. Measurement comparisons were done on the CT scan data, 3D digital model and FDM medical model. The FDM medical model was given to the orthopaedic surgeon for comments and feedback. This is an important step as surgeons play a crucial role in validating the RP medical model. The results obtained showed that the RP medical model has high accuracy rate as measurements were not significant compared to the CT scan and 3D digital model measurements. Therefore, RP can be integrated for medical applications.

I Introduction

Hip joint surgeries are usually complex and time consuming. Therefore, minimizing the duration of the surgery should reduce the risk of complications during and after surgery. The main criteria involved while planning for the surgery is essential to reduce complication and smoothen the execution of surgery. New surgical methods focus on diagnosis, operative techniques and patient management. This can be achieved using a technique called Rapid Prototyping (RP) [1]. RP technology in the medical field is one of the most interesting applications.