Application of binocular visual navigation technique in diaphyseal fracture reduction

BACKGROUND: Computer-assisted surgical navigation techniques have shown promise; however, currently popular systems have limitations. This paper presents the characterization and application of a binocular visual navigation technique in diaphyseal fracture reduction. METHODS: A binocular visual tracker (MicronTracker) was introduced to reduce diaphyseal fractures. A transformation matrix was used to acquire the reduction parameters. A transverse diaphyseal fracture was used as a control group. RESULTS: Precision tests were performed with the binocular system using a simulation femoral model with a transverse fracture 12 times. All residual deformations were compared and P < 0.01. CONCLUSIONS: The binocular visual navigation technique produces good results with advantages of flexibility and high positional accuracy and shows promise. The MicronTracker might lead to further application in the remote navigation field.