Bone and Joint Institute
The effect of implant design of linked total elbow arthroplasty on stability and stress: A finite element analysis
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-1-2014
Journal
Computer Methods in Biomechanics and Biomedical Engineering
Volume
17
Issue
11
First Page
1165
Last Page
1172
URL with Digital Object Identifier
10.1080/10255842.2012.739161
Abstract
Several linked total elbow arthroplasty designs exist, which function similar to a loose hinge joint. Constraint behaviour is an important design consideration, as it affects joint stability, or how much secondary [e.g. varus-valgus (VV)] motion is permitted. Implant durability is also a concern, as bearing failures have been reported. This finite element analysis investigates the constraint characteristics and ultra high molecular weight polyethylene bearing stresses of three linked elbow design concepts [cylindrical (CY), hourglass (HG) and concave cylinder (CC)]. The bearing of the CY design was subjected to elevated Von Mises stresses (2.1-5.4 times higher than the HG and CC designs) due to edge loading. The HG design maintained low stresses, but was unable to provide consistent VV stability. The CC design also maintained low stresses while providing consistent VV stability. These results suggest that CC designs may provide better stability characteristics and durability in vivo, compared to the other two designs. © 2012 Taylor & Francis.
