Dr. George Crickard III, an orthopedic surgeon at Quincy Medical Group (QMG), is the first in the region — and the state of Illinois — to utilize the HipInsight™ system. This innovative technology is the world’s first and only patient-specific, mixed-reality guidance system for hip replacement surgery.
The HipInsight™ system provides surgeons with what can best be described as “x‑ray vision,” enabling them to view detailed, three-dimensional images of the patient’s hip joint in real time during surgery.
“This technology allows me to see beyond the incision and gives us the potential to make surgery even less invasive while improving surgical accuracy,” said Dr. Crickard.
The process begins with a CT scan of the patient’s pelvis, which is used to create a detailed preoperative plan for augmented reality guidance. During surgery, a sensor is placed on the bony pelvis, and the surgeon wears a mixed-reality headset to visualize a holographic, three-dimensional image of the patient’s anatomy. This hologram, based on the CT scan, is superimposed over the patient, enabling the surgeon to follow precise trajectories for placing hip replacement components with enhanced accuracy.
Hip replacement surgeries are among the most common elective procedures in the United States. A 2020 study by Johns Hopkins researchers revealed that over 400,000 hip surgeries are performed annually nationwide.
“Hip replacement surgery has a long history of improving the quality of life for patients suffering from diseases of the hip joint,” said Dr. Crickard. “HipInsight™ is a platform that provides surgeons with more patient-specific information than ever before.”
With an aging population, the demand for hip surgeries is expected to rise significantly. A 2018 University of Pennsylvania study predicts a 71% increase in hip surgeries by 2030. Innovations like HipInsight™ aim to help surgeons achieve better outcomes with fewer complications.
“This technology represents a paradigm shift,” added Dr. Crickard. “By combining advanced imaging with real-time guidance, it not only benefits the surgeon but, more importantly, enhances patient care.”
To learn more about Dr. Crickard and his work, visit quincymedgroup.com.