This research aims at developing a PC-based spinal screw insertion simulation program and rapid prototyping spine models for correct placement of spinal screws.

We developed a surgical simulator on top of a 3-D medical imaging system V-worksTM (Cybermed, Inc.) and used Z-402 (Z Corporation) models made of hardened starch.

The first phase is training surgeons using the simulation software. The trainees could simulate the insertion of spinal screws using the PC-based software. The second phase is a planning software to determine the ideal entry point and insertion angle using the multiplanar reconstruction images of spine CT. Finally, a rapid prototyping model of which the size is identical to the actual bone is produced for simulation surgery prior to the actual one.

The system provides a tool for educating and training the beginners of spinal screw insertion, and also a pre-surgical simulation environment for planning the actual insertion surgery.