Three-dimensional visualization of simulated surgery for distal femoral fractures based on unigraphics NX and mimics

Objective To report computer-aided three-dimensional visualization of simulated surgery for distal femoral fractures using software Unigraphics NX and Mimics. Methods The preoperative CT scans of 6 patients with distal femoral fractures were used for three-dimensional reconstruction of distal femoral fractures using software Mimics. Three-dimensional reconstruction of the surgical instruments using the modeling function of software Unigraphics NX. The assembly function of software Unigraphics NX was used to vi-sualize the simulated internal fixations of distal femoral fractures with both Less Invasive Stable System plates and the retrograde nails. The operative procedures simulated by the software Unigraphics NX were analyzed preoperatively. Results The simulated operative procedures were clearly and vividly visualized in three-dimensions, The fracture reduction and operative effects could be predicted. Conclusion This system of three-dimensional visualization of simulated surgery for distal femoral fractures using software Unigraphics NX and Mimics can help surgeons make preoperative predictions and select reliable methods to improve the reliability and effectiveness of the orthopaedic surgery. Key words: Femoral fractures; Image processing, computer-assisted; Software; Virtual op-eration