The application of computer assistance in planning osteotomy of the proximal femur

Background. The aim of this article is to demonstrate the capabilities of the SCFEanalyzer computer program, which may be helpful in preoperative planning of osteotomy of the proximal femur. Material and methods. Computed tomography scans were performed on human bone specimens: one pelvis and two femoral bones (right and left). The CT data were used to demonstrate the abilities of our SCFEanalyzer software, which utilizes three-dimensional virtual models of anatomic structures constructed from these data. The software enables qualitative and quantitative spatial analysis of chosen parameters analogous to those done on the basis of plain radiographs. SCFEanalyzer makes it possible to evaluate the function of the hip joint by calculating the range of motion depending on the shape of bone structures. On the basis of the analysis of femoral geometry and function of the hip joint, it is possible to plan and simulate osteotomy of the proximal femur on the computer screen. Analogous qualitative and quantitative evaluation after performing the virtual surgery enables its potential effects to be assessed. Conclusions. The use of computer assistance in preoperative planning enable us to increase objectivity and repeatability, and to compare the results of different types of osteotomy of the proximal femur, and thus to choose the optimal operation in each individual case.