Solving Segmentation Challenges for Personalized Knee Implants

The Synopsys Solution - Simpleware AS Ortho

Synopsys has tackled this challenge by harnessing Machine Learning (ML) techniques to develop a fully automated tool that takes the time and hassle out of segmenting knees. Knees are one of the most commonly replaced joints, and so presents an ideal example of how segmentation can be optimized to improve effectiveness in many key areas.

The result: the Simpleware AS Ortho module allows MRI scans of knees to be segmented in just a few minutes compared to an hour or more using manual segmentation! Simpleware ML algorithms are trained by experts and checked by clinical professionals, so you can be confident of accurate reliable results.

The model produced includes a series of masks of the bones and cartilage from the knee, all segmented from the image data available. Patient-specific landmarks are also automatically placed on the model.

Consistency Using Simpleware AS Ortho

Using Simpleware AS Ortho not only cuts down the time spent segmenting the image data, it is also a consistent approach, so there are fewer inconsistencies in the process that could be caused by different users’ interpretation of the features in the image data. This means the models do not need to go through multiple reviews between team members.

How the Tool Works

1. Import your data into Simpleware ScanIP using our dedicated DICOM importer or use the Image import if you have stacks of images or raw data. Currently this tool supports PD weighted Sag/Cor, and T2 Cor MRI scan data (with more to be released).

2. Open the Knee MRI tool in the Auto segmentation tab. The Knee MRI tool presents are a series of options:

• Use the automatic region of interest, or define your own
• Select all or only the model parts you want to segment
• Choose the MRI image weighting
• Create landmarks and smooth the geometry

Use these options to customize your model by removing parts or steps you don’t require to speed up your model generation even further.

3. Press Apply.

4. Review your model. Once the model has been generated, you can view it as a series of masks in the 2D slice views or in 3D. The landmarks placed on your model can be seen in the Measurements tools, where you can unlock and edit them as required. You can also use all the tools and features in Simpleware ScanIP as usual. This tool has just sped up the process by doing the initial segmentation for you.

What's Next?

The model can then be used in a range of ways:

• Continue to segment more regions, such as additional soft tissues, or make adjustments where required.
• Import, position, and tailor a CAD implant using the Simpleware CAD and/or Simpleware Design Link modules for device design.
• Export the model (with or without CAD) for 3D printing as a surface.
• Generate a CAD file of the patient-specific anatomy where more complex design work is required.
• Produce a full volume mesh in Simpleware FE suitable for FE analysis to understand more about the knee structure or function.

Learn more about the full Simpleware Software Suite

Lots of Data? No Problem

Simpleware AS Ortho can work through batches of cases using automation and scripting capabilities, freeing up expert time for review, design and development. For more information on our customization tools, please read our blog Customize and Automate Workflows with Simpleware Software.

For a fully tailored solution to your individual workflows, speak to us to learn more about Simpleware Custom Modeler.

Simpleware AS Ortho Benefits

• Quickly generate accurate patient-specific models
• Eliminate inconsistencies between different users and the need for multiple reviews
• Shortened learning curve for new technicians and engineers
• Scale up quickly with Simpleware software’s automated solutions
• Less segmentation means more time for innovation