Modeling and Implementation of a Lunate Implant Based on 3D Reconstruction of CT Scan Images

Kienbock’s disease is an avascular necrosis of the lunate bone of the hand, which manifests itself by pain in the wrist associated with a certain stiffness and above all a loss of clenching strength. If left untreated, the natural course of this disease is towards the progressive aggravation and destruction of the lunate and then the whole wrist. In the advanced stages of the disease, the lunate becomes too damaged to be preserved. Several surgical techniques can be considered, including the placement of an implant. In this perspective, the present paper deals with the modelling and the realization of a lunate implant. To do this, we first used scanner images provided by the Cheikh Zaid International University Hospital in Rabat (Morocco) in order to obtain a 3D reconstruction of the semilunar bone. The measurements carried out on this reconstruction allowed us to determine the parameters necessary for its modelling. In a second step, we proceeded to the choice of the material taking into account several criteria such as biocompatibility, elastic limit, cost, … Finally, we proceeded to the 3D printing of a prototype. The results obtained are satisfactory and could contribute to a better management of patients suffering from Kienbock disease.