Protocol for evaluation of robotic technology in orthopedic surgery.
case_series · Level IV
Where this comes from
- Record sourced from PubMed, PMID 24171114.
- Also identified by DOI 10.1155/2013/194683 and PMC identifier 3792528.
- Licence recorded as CC BY.
- The licence permits redistribution, so the abstract is shown in full and the full text is available from the publisher.
Abstract
In recent years, robots have become commonplace in surgical procedures due to their high accuracy and repeatability. The Acrobot Sculptor is an example of such a robot that can assist with unicompartmental knee replacement. In this study, we aim to evaluate the accuracy of the robot (software and hardware) in a clinical setting. We looked at (1) segmentation by comparing the segmented data from Sculptor software to other commercial software, (2) registration by checking the inter- and intraobserver repeatability of selecting set points, and finally (3) sculpting (n = 9 cases) by evaluating the achieved implant position and orientation relative to that planned. The results from segmentation and registration were found to be accurate. The highest error was observed in flexion extension orientation of femoral implant (0.4 ± 3.7°). Mean compound rotational and translational errors for both components were 2.1 ± 0.6 mm and 3 ± 0.8° for tibia and 2.4 ± 1.2 mm and 4.3 ± 1.4° for the femur. The results from all processes used in Acrobot were small. Validation of robot in clinical settings is highly vital to ensure a good outcome for patients. It is therefore recommended to follow the protocol used here on other available similar products.