A Korean R&D institute is looking for global partners for modeling lower limb 3D (three-dimensional) bone based on biplanar X-ray under technical cooperation and research cooperation

In orthopedics field, 3D (three-dimensional) skeleton modeling is highly useful for improving the accuracy of disease diagnosis, mapping out the customized surgery plans or producing educational simulation programs. It is common to configure a 3D skeleton modeling based on data obtained from CT/MRI (Computed Tomography/Magnetic Resonance Imaging), but it is costly to obtain data, time consuming to capture the images and risky to face various hazard such as radiation exposure. In particular, MRI produces inaccurate data for the human skeleton which is the problem. A Korean R&D institute focusing on ICT Bio-healthcare has developed a technology for modeling lower limb 3D bone based on biplanar X-ray. The technology is to construct a detailed 3D skeleton modeling of lower limb (femur, shinbone, and splint bone) through optimizing SSM (Statistical Shape Models) after matching the initial 3D model by appointing feature point using two X-ray images scanned vertically. Additionally, the technology scans the images in the stand position, thereby more accurately modeling the space between bones, an important factor to determine joint disorders. Plus, it is cheaper than CT or MRI based 3D modeling and less risky in danger of radiation exposure. Any companies or research institutes, interested in diagnostic assistance systems, educational services of orthopedics area, can employ this technology to advance their service more accurate, cheaper, and safer. Also, the Korean R&D institute is interested in applying joint R&D programme(e.g. EUREKA, EUROSTARS) to develop new orthopedic diagnostic assistance system or healthcare system.