Personalising joint surgery through imaging, engineering and data.
The Surgical Technology Lab (STL) is a multidisciplinary research group based at the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital (RNOH) and University College London (UCL).
Our mission is to transform how joint surgeries—particularly hip and knee replacements—are planned, performed, and evaluated. We combine clinical insight, advanced imaging, engineering, and data science to develop precise, patient-specific tools and techniques.
We’re rethinking how joint replacements are done – using 
advanced imaging, engineering, and data to personalise every 
step. We design for the individual, so that surgery is more accurate, recovery is faster, and long-term outcomes truly improve lives.
— Dr. Anna Di Laura,
Orthopaedic Engineer and Project Lead
What we’re working on...
We’re helping to make orthopaedic surgery more accurate, personalised and effective by using cutting-edge technologies. We go beyond standard imaging by harnessing the full 3D potential of CT, MRI, and X-ray, then integrating them through advanced image analysis, computer modelling, and 3D printing.
This work drives improvements across three key areas:
TRANSFORMING SURGERY THROUGH ADVANCED IMAGING
We use 3D modelling, imaging and surgical planning software to help surgeons personalise every operation.
PATIENT-SPECIFIC IMPLANTS AND TOOLS
For complex cases where off-the-shelf solutions fall short, we help design patient-specific implants and surgical guides, bringing a clinical perspective to the process.
DATA MODELLING AND SIMULATION FOR DESIGN
We analyse variation in joint shape across populations to improve implant design, plan complex surgeries, and predict outcomes.
