Optimizing Joint Placement and Motion Schedule for 2-DOF Computer-Assisted Distraction Osteogenesis

Distraction osteogenesis is a surgical procedure used to correct severe bone deformities. Current practice involves planning the deformity correction using parameters measured from radiographs and the installation of complex fixators such as the Taylor spatial frame. A computer-integrated surgery system has been proposed that uses a novel two-degree-of-freedom fixator to correct complex bone deformities. The proposed fixator is designed such that the two joints can be positioned and oriented arbitrarily to achieve proper alignment of the bone fragments while following a desired trajectory. This paper describes the fixator configuration methods and trajectory planning procedures used to prove the feasibility of such a device. It is shown that this device is applicable for a variety of deformity types and realignment trajectories.