Development and Validation of a Navigation System Based on a 3D Digital Magnetic Sensor and an NdFeB Magnet for Interlocking of Intramedullary Nails: A Step Toward Neuro-Orthopaedic Integration and Future AI-Enhanced Guidance

Abstract

This study presents the Navigation Interlocking Magnetic System (NIMS), an innovative method for guiding distal locking screws in intramedullary osteosynthesis. Using a 3D digital magnetometer and a cylindrical NdFeB magnet, NIMS ensures precise alignment, significantly reducing operative time and eliminating radiation exposure. The system was rigorously tested, achieving an average procedural time of 21.24 seconds, with an average deviation of 1.541 mm and an angular error of 4.39 degrees. Although the results are promising, further improvements and additional clinical studies are needed to validate its efficiency in various orthopaedic applications. Due to these characteristics, NIMS represents a promising solution for optimising orthopaedic surgical interventions.Beyond its technical implementation, this work demonstrates an interdisciplinary strategy that connects clinical orthopaedics, computer science, and biomedical engineering. NIMS fits into the larger trend of intelligent surgical systems due to its combination of hardware components, real-time data processing, and procedural precision. Systems like NIMS may evolve into adaptive, artificial intelligence (AI)-driven platforms as artificial intelligence continues to influence intraoperative decision-making and surgical navigation, creating new opportunities for individualized and effective orthopedic care.