DIGITAL TWINS IN TRAUMATOLOGY AND ORTHOPEDICS: A REVIEW OF JOINT IMAGING AND ECONOMIC EFFICIENCY

Introduction Digital twins (DTs) are emerging tools in personalized medicine for orthopedics and traumatology. They enable virtual simulation of joint conditions and treatments based on patient-specific biomechanical and imaging data. Aim The aim of the study is to evaluate the application of digital twins in traumatology and orthopedics, with a focus on joint visualization methods and the economic efficiency of their implementation. Methods A systematic literature review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Sources from 2020 to 2025 were searched in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Springer, Elsevier, eLibrary, and Cyberleninka, focusing on DTs for joints, imaging technologies, and cost-effectiveness. Results Ten studies were included. Key imaging modalities included CT arthrography, T2 mapping, and automatic cartilage segmentation. Successful applications of DTs were found in surgical planning, osteoarthritis modeling, and health economics of robotic-assisted interventions. Discussion DTs improve diagnostic precision and treatment personalization while reducing complication rates. Yet, challenges remain in model integration, development costs, and regulatory issues. Conclusion Digital twins hold strong potential in orthopedics but require further clinical validation, cost-effectiveness studies, and standardization efforts. Key words: digital twin, osteoarthritis, arthrography, T2 mapping, orthopedics, imaging, cost-effectiveness