Validation of the finite element model of the femur and a novel internal distractible plate system

Abstract

For distraction osteogenesis, external fixators such as mono or circular type were used popularly. However, there are many reported complications such as infection of pin site, vascular and neurological injury and the discomfort during walking. The purpose of this study is to introduce a novel internal distractible plate system (IDPS) and to validate of the finite element model of the femur and IDPS before clinical application and finite element analysis with multiple biomechanical factors. After validating the finite element model of femur and femur with IDPS using the structural stiffness and strain of cadaveric femur during compression test, biomechanical stability of a novel IDPS was analyzed. Reconstructed finite element models showed similar result comparing with the values of cadaveric test in vitro. Through validation procedures using the finite element model of the intact femur and the 30mmdistracted femur with the IDPS, the material properties and the coefficient of friction of the finite element models for finite element analysis can be understood as reliable. Also, clinical stability of a novel IDPS was confirmed.