mediCAD Hectec GmbH has updated its surgical planning software for orthopedic and trauma-related procedures.

mediCAD 8 combines artificial intelligence (AI) and automation, aiming to transform the way surgeons prepare and evaluate orthopedic and trauma procedures—expediting planning and improving both accuracy and consistency. The integrated mediCAD AI technology represents a significant advancement in digital surgical planning, delivering measurable improvements in precision and efficiency, according to the company.

At the heart of the new release is mediCAD AI, a framework that uses advanced algorithms to automatically recognize anatomical landmarks and interpret medical images with signficant precision. The system detects key reference points across the hip, knee, and lower limb, supporting surgeons with data-driven accuracy from the first step of the planning process. Comparative studies show that landmark detection in mediCAD 8 achieves an average deviation of less than two millimeters, ensuring precise alignment and reducing the need for manual corrections frequently required in earlier versions.

The benefits of this automation extend beyond accuracy, mediCAD bigwigs claim. In practice, segmentation and implant placement now only take about one minute, compared with two and a half minutes in the previous version, a reduction of roughly 60%. Notably, this performance can be achieved by less experienced users, while version 7 requires expert-level familiarity to achieve comparable results. The AI-driven workflow supports surgeons in providing quick, accurate results, thus saving time for medical evaluation.

In addition to landmark recognition, mediCAD 8 automatically detects image parameters such as orientation and scale, displaying only the relevant tools for each case. The system’s intelligent logic minimizes setup time and ensures the appropriate planning modules are immediately available. The new 2D Trauma module introduces advanced features, including anatomy mirroring for comparison with the non-pathological side, integrated segmentation and fracture management with color-coded visualization, and user-oriented interface for efficient fracture reduction. Expanded measurement options now cover the entire body, supporting comprehensive trauma analysis. The upcoming 3D Trauma module extends these capabilities into a three-dimensional environment, offering greater spatial understanding and precision.

By combining AI-driven automation, accuracy, and advanced trauma functionality, mediCAD 8 defines a new benchmark for intelligent digital surgery planning, empowering surgeons to plan faster, act with confidence, and enhance patient outcomes.

Since 1994, mediCAD Hectec GmbH has been developing software solutions for orthopedic surgeons to enable efficient and secure digital planning of joint surgeries in all aspects—in hospitals as well as private practices. The company provided a software program in 1999 that enabled users to professionally create complete preoperative plans for joint replacements in a digital environment with just a few entries/clicks.

The company’s mediCAD solution has set a benchmark in supporting orthopedic surgery worldwide. Through automatic data archiving and seamless traceability of findings, surgical preparation, and aftercare, mediCAD offers a solution for optimally prepared, professionally performed, and audit-proof documented surgeries, along with correspondingly recorded aftercare. Through close cooperation with medical technology firms and the successful global use of mediCAD in more than 3,500 clinics, mediCAD HECTEC GmbH is a worldwide provider of medical software solutions. The company employs about 50 people.