ADVANCING ORTHOPEDIC TRAUMA SURGERY: THE INTEGRATION OF AI, 3D NAVIGATION, AND ROBOTIC INTRAOPERATIVE IMAGING SYSTEMS

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Abstract

Intraoperative imaging systems have been established in modern operating rooms for many years. However, over the past decade, their technical capabilities and specifications have evolved rapidly. Beyond the improvements in image quality, current systems now enable automated intraoperative image analyses—such as implant detection and artifact correction through gray level optimization.Robotic enhancements have transformed these imaging modalities into mobile and remotely operable systems. At their most advanced stage, such systems are robotically maneuverable, equipped with automatic position detection and augmented with artificial intelligence (AI). These features allow for the real-time superimposition of anatomical structures on radiologic images, significantly improving intraoperative visualization. These stationary robotic imaging platforms serve a wide range of applications across orthopedic and trauma surgery.Intraoperative 3D imaging provides data that can be integrated into surgical navigation systems. Referenced datasets—aligned through robotic systems capable of self-localization and optical tracking—are transferred to the navigation software, enabling precise preoperative planning and intraoperative guidance for implant positioning. This precision is particularly crucial in managing complex periarticular fractures, as well as spinal and pelvic injuries.These so-called “surgeon-enabling technologies” contribute to minimizing surgical exposure, reducing soft tissue trauma, and improving the accuracy of implant placement. Ultimately, they improve patient-specific outcomes.In recent years, AI has also found its way into the operating rooms. Its role is to process existing information, providing real-time suggestions for implant selection, positioning, and radiographic interpretation. By accelerating decision-making processes, AI enhances surgical precision and workflow efficiency.Modern Intraoperative imaging systems in combination with AI, 3D navigation, and augmented reality are now a crucial part of operating rooms and will in the future become an integral part of the surgical therapy in orthopedic trauma surgery.