Camiel Smees MSc

A comparison of 3D CT and 2D plain radiograph measurements of the wrist in extra-articular malunited fractures of the distal radius

Literature states that 2D plain radiographs are insufficient for the evaluation of distal radius malunion, as malunion is a three dimensional deformity. This study introduced a 3D measuring method that outputs radial inclination, ulnar variance, palmar tilt and axial rotation. To this end, a standardised and clearly defined coordinate system was constructed that allowed 3D measurements closely resembling the conventional 2D method in 35 patients. Mean differences between 3D and 2D measurements in affected wrists were 1.8° for radial inclination, 0.8 mm for ulnar variance and 3.7° for palmar tilt. Additionally, inter- and intraobserver reproducibility of all 3D and 2D measurements were good or excellent (ICC>0.75), with 3D reproducibility always better than 2D. Axial rotation was present in all patients with a mean of 7.9° (SD 6.9). Concluding, a well-defined 3D measuring method was developed for common extra-articular radius malunion parameters, with a higher reproducibility than the conventional 2D method.

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BIOGRAPHY

I did my master's thesis at OCON orthopaedic hospital in Hengelo. After graduation, I stayed at OCON, where I now work as researcher and 3D specialist. I perform my research together with the BDDP group at the UT, where I’m a guest PhD student.
My research is focused on the implementation and optimisation of the use of 3D techniques to improve outcome of orthopeadic wrist surgery.

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