The clinical application of using computer navigation in the hip resurfacing procedure - A question of cost?

摘要

Introduction: Computer Assisted Orthopaedic Surgery (CAOS) has made major developments over the last 5 years. The application of computer navigation in hip resurfacing has significant clinical potential. Hip resurfacing is a technically challenging operation, which has been observed as having a small margin for error. The improved accuracy afforded by computer navigation has been shown to be both safe and of clinical benefit (Hess 2006). This article will seek to examine the current situation that challenges the transfer of computer-navigated hip resurfacing to widespread clinical practice using a force field analysis model originally developed by Lewin (1947). This management tool provides a method for identifying both the drivers and barriers to introducing computer navigation to hip resurfacing practice. The results will be discussed alongside the authors' two-year experience of using computer-navigation in the hip resurfacing procedure. A cost analysis of undertaking the technique will also be considered.