The Use of Augmented Reality (AR) in Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA)

Augmented Reality (AR) can have a great added value in Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA). Until recently, stem and cup of a THA were placed based solely on the findings of preoperative X-ray. Last years, 3D-templating has made an appearance in THA. Despite these advancements in templating, this information is only preoperative available and no intra-operative feedback can be obtained. Based on a preoperative CT-scan of the patient’s hip region, a segmentation of femur and acetabulum can be made on which stem and cup can be 3D templated. When this template is projected onto the patient using AR via a mixed-reality device (Microsoft Hololens), intra-operative feedback according to stem and cup positioning can be visualized so that the prosthesis can be placed with great accuracy regarding the preoperative made template. Consequently, the goal of this PhD is to create a software which can template a stem and a cup in a patient’s respectively femur and acetabulum based on preoperative CT-scan images. The software should also allow to adapt stem and cup position according to the surgeon’s preference. Lastly, the software should allow to be imported into a mixed-reality device and to project the template with great accuracy onto the patient's hip region. Validation and measurements of accuracy of the software will be investigated, this by performing research on both sawbone and kadaver specimens which will mimic peroperative usage of the software.