A custom-made guide-wire positioning device for hip surface replacement arthroplasty: description and first results

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Biomedical Engineering
• Medical Device Design

Background:

• Hip surface replacement arthroplasty (SRA) is an alternative to total hip arthroplasty.
• Optimal femoral component size and position are critical for SRA success.
• Accurate intraoperative placement relies on guide wire positioning, often aided by visual inspection or Computer Assisted Surgery (CAS).

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a custom-made neck jig device for hip surface replacement arthroplasty.
• To evaluate the accuracy and usability of this novel jig in a pilot study.

Main Methods:

• A custom jig was designed based on CT-scan data and surgeon recommendations.
• The jig fits the anterior femoral head and neck, guiding the drill for accurate wire placement.
• The device was tested in 5 patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty, with analysis of guide wire accuracy and surgeon feedback.

Main Results:

• Surgeons rated the jig's stability and fit positively.
• No guide failures occurred, and the device was rated as user-friendly (rated 1-2 for complexity).
• All guide wires were accurately positioned, with maximum angular deviation of 2.9 degrees and 2.1 mm deviation in insertion points.

Conclusions:

• The custom-made jig is a user-friendly and effective tool for SRA.
• It enables accurate guide wire placement, aligning with preoperative plans.
• This device offers a practical solution for precise femoral component positioning in SRA.