Computer-assisted surgery for screw insertion into the distal sesamoid bone in horses: an in vitro study.

This research article is about a study comparing the precision of computer-assisted surgery and conventional methods for inserting screws into the distal sesamoid bone in horses, with findings highlighting that computer-assisted surgery demonstrated better precision.

Objective and Methodology of the Study

• The primary purpose of this research was to compare the precision levels of two methods for screw insertion into the distal sesamoid bone in horses. Specifically, the study tested the conventional technique (CV) – which uses a special guiding device and fluoroscopy, against computer-assisted surgery (CAS) – which uses computer-assisted navigation.
• This comparative study was performed in vitro, i.e., outside of a living organism. It made use of cadaveric forelimb specimens from horses.
• Two groups, each comprising of 8 limbs, were formed to conduct the comparison. Concurrently, the insertion of a 3.5 mm cortex screw was attempted in each group, following the longitudinal axis of non-fractured distal sesamoid bones.

Research Findings and Results

• The study confirmed that the precision of inserting the screw was better with computer-assisted surgery compared to the conventional method.
• This conclusion was reached after a meticulous examination. The accuracy of screw placement was verified through various means, including radiography, computed tomography, and specimen dissection, to ensure reliability.

Conclusions and Implications

• Overall, computer-assisted surgery demonstrated superior precision over conventional methods for inserting screws into the distal sesamoid bone in horses. This outcome implies that the CAS technique can significantly improve accuracy when dealing with fractures of the distal sesamoid bone.
• More specifically, the study recommended the application of the CAS technique for lateromedial screw insertion, in lag fashion, into the distal sesamoid bone.
• The findings of this study underline the potential of computer-assisted surgery in the veterinary field and may prompt further research and technological development in this direction.