An integrated CAD-robotics system for total knee replacement surgery

An integrated system has been developed that allows the surgeon to more accurately place implant components during total knee surgery. A graphic computer displaying 3-D computed tomography (CT) data of the patient's knee is used to perform more informed and accurate preoperative planning. In the operating room, a robot and specially designed fixturing help the surgeon in performing the bone resections as determined in the preoperative plan. Crucial to the accuracy of this system is the rigid immobilization of the involved bones and the robot's ability to determine their exact locations in space. The rationale and an overview of this system are presented as well as a discussion of some of the technical issues that have arisen. >