From anatomy to
surgical guide
STEP
1
CT ACQUISITION
Acquire CT with the thinnest available slices, bone reconstruction algorithm, FOV and scan range restricted to the region of interest, patient positioned with the bone of interest as perpendicular to the gantry as possible. Upload the DICOM files as a single .zip file through our case submission form.
- process timeline -
STEP
2
3D RECONSTRUCTION
From your CT, we create an accurate three-dimensional virtual model of the bones of interest (a faithful digital copy of the patient's anatomy that we can study and plan around).
STEP
3
SURGICAL PLANNING AND REHEARSAL
With the anatomy fully assessed on the 3D model, we establish a surgical plan tailored to the individual patient. The procedure can then be rehearsed virtually and the proposed plan is shared with you for review and approval before anything is made.
STEP
4
DESIGNING THE SURGICAL GUIDES
Once you have approved the surgical plan, with any adjustments made first, we design the patient-specific guides that translate that plan into surgery. Each guide is shaped to fit the patient's anatomy in only one position, so the approved corrections, drill paths and implant positions are reproduced precisely in theatre.
STEP
5
PRINTING AND SHIPPING
The bone models and guides are 3D printed (guides in autoclavable, biocompatible resin), post-processed and shipped to you unsterile, so you can inspect and trial-fit them before sterilising for surgery. Timings vary by case and are agreed with you during planning, depending on urgency.
STEP
6
SURGICAL EXECUTION
The case is now back in your hands. With the planning and patient-specific guides done in advance, the aim is to shorten surgical time and improve precision in theatre. We always welcome your feedback afterwards — it helps us refine each case and improve the guides we make for you.
