What professional planning software should actually do
Arthroplasty planning is reconstruction planning. The relevant question is not only which component appears to fit, but how the planned construct restores joint geometry, leg length, offset, alignment and component relationships within the limits of the available imaging.
The OrthoMetiQ workflow is designed around the practical communication between image, implant geometry and surgical intent, rather than around a generic image viewer.
Questions the workflow must answer
- What is the preoperative deformity or reconstruction problem?
- Which anatomical references are reliable on the available images?
- Which component sizes and positions support the intended reconstruction?
- Where are the compromises between fixation, coverage, alignment and anatomy?
- Which assumptions must be checked intraoperatively?
A traceable planning workflow
- 01
Baseline assessment
Document leg length, offset, joint center or limb alignment before placing components.
- 02
Reconstruction target
Define what should be restored or intentionally changed rather than copying the current anatomy without interpretation.
- 03
Component sequence
Plan cup and stem or femoral and tibial components in a clinically meaningful order.
- 04
Size and position review
Assess fit, coverage, overhang, canal relationship, resection or orientation according to the module.
- 05
Alternative scenario
Evaluate at least one adjacent size or position where anatomy or image quality makes the result uncertain.
- 06
Operative communication
Export a concise report that separates measured facts from planning assumptions.
Useful planning outputs
- THA or TKA component plan
- Leg-length and offset analysis
- Center-of-rotation or alignment analysis
- Resection and position information
- Report for surgical preparation
Typical quality limits
- Planning on non-weight-bearing images when alignment is the question
- Ignoring pelvic or limb positioning
- Treating predicted size as a guaranteed intraoperative size
- Missing compatibility checks between components
- Failure to document uncertainty
Frequently asked questions
What are the goals of arthroplasty planning?
Planning prepares reconstruction of joint geometry, leg length, offset, alignment and component position while documenting anticipated implant components and sizes.
What is included in THA planning?
Typical elements include cup and stem sizing, center of rotation, leg-length difference, femoral offset, neck length and radiographic component orientation.
What is included in TKA planning?
Relevant elements include mechanical alignment, landmarks, resection levels, component positioning, size selection and, when available, sagittal tibial slope.
Why is a planning report useful?
A structured report makes measurements, component selection and planning assumptions traceable for operating-room preparation, team communication and review.