3-DIMENSIONAL COMPUTER-ANALYSIS OF COMPLEX ACETABULAR INSUFFICIENCY

Fourteen patients with acetabular dysplasia were studied by using thre e-dimensional computed tomography (CT) reconstructions before pelvic o steotomies. Computer manipulation of the data allowed a preoperative v isual assessment of acetabular shape, assessment of potential congruen cy between the femoral head and acetabulum by using a mathematical bes t-fit sphere, and measurement of surface contact distances that depict joint coverage and relate to concentration of weight-bearing forces. Preoperative evaluation of the three-dimensional images for these 14 p atients allowed improved understanding of their abnormal anatomy and b etter surgical planning.