Computer Modelling of Rapid Prototyping Models for Hip Surgery

This research was done to show the usefulness of rapid prototyping (RP) models in dysplastic hip surgery. Since, there is lack of published information on the use of RP models in planning of dysplastic hip surgery; this research was done to provide such information. Computed tomography (CT) of patient with dysplastic hip was used. A special software was used to prepare the three dimensional model of the patient which was then used to produce the RP models. Then, these models were given to the surgeons to plan for the dysplastic hip surgeries. Measurements on the CT scan data were taken before surgery. Finally, surgeons’ comments on their experience of planning dysplastic hip surgery with the use of RP models were obtained. CT scan measurements taken before surgery indicated the severity of the dysplastic hip in each patient. Surgeons found the RP models very useful in planning of surgery which helped them make decisions, increased their confidence and also reduced surgery time. The result obtained shows the effectiveness of using RP models in planning of dysplastic hip surgery. This research provides an understanding on the use of RP models in planning of dysplastic hip surgery. Surgeons had new experience of using these models that greatly influenced the success of the surgery.