Safety of computer-assisted surgery for cannulated hip screws

Computer-assisted orthopaedic surgery has developed considerably during the past few years. Several manufacturers produce hardware and software for use in trauma surgery. Validation of these systems before clinical application is mandatory to be sure they work accurately and safely. The accuracy of surgical performance is highly correlated with the cut-out percentages of hip screws. In a standardized operative setting, three cannulated hip screws were inserted in each of 20 sawbones. The screws were positioned either by fluoroscopic navigation technique or by conventional operative technique depending on randomization. Our primary aim was to assess whether computer-navigated screw fixation is equally safe compared with conventional screw fixation using fluoroscopy. To determine safety, we investigated number of drilling attempts, screw position, and radiation time. Secondary to these safety parameters, we also compared the operating time between the two procedures to assess the efficiency of computer navigation. Statistical analysis showed no differences regarding accuracy of screw position. Computer-assisted surgery resulted in fewer drilling attempts and less radiation time, with a similar operation time. We believe the currently used navigation system is safe and accurate.