Computer-assisted spherical osteotomy with a curved-bladed Tuke Saw®

Abstract

Techniques for spherical osteotomy, such as rotational acetabular osteotomy, can help orthopaedic surgeons correct bony deformities and remove spherical acetabular components. Curved chisels are used during a spherical osteotomy, but they require skill and have a potential risk of damaging blood vessels or nerves. In order to perform a precise, quick and safe spherical osteotomy, we have developed a novel computer-assisted surgical tool using a vibrating bone saw, the Tuke Saw®, with a curved blade that operates under the guidance of an optical navigation system. In this study, the accuracy and ease of use of this curved-bladed Tuke Saw® in spherical osteotomy were examined in comparison with the conventional curved chisel. Using these surgical tools, hemispherical osteotomies were performed on rectangular parallelepiped Sawbones® blocks and rotational acetabular osteotomies were performed on cadaveric pelves. The distance error with the curved-bladed Tuke Saw® was significantly smaller than that with the curved chisel, and the procedure time with the Tuke Saw® was approximately half that with the chisel. It can thus be concluded that the curved-bladed Tuke Saw® is more accurate and easier to use than the conventional curved chisel.