The outcome variability and failures of conventional osteotomy have been attributed to lack of preoperative planning and inaccuracy in performing the correction. We present a computer and robotic assisted surgery system that can aid in accurate surgical planning for realignment, and in precisely implementing the plan in theatre. The approach seeks to avoid the cost and risks associated with the use of CT, and the insertion of fiducial markers, which are characteristic of existing computer assisted surgical systems.

The paper details the architecture of the system as a whole, placing particular emphasis on planning technique. It is anticipated that the increased accuracy possible with the system will prove particularly useful for correcting multi-plane deformities, which are more problematic with conventional techniques.