Optimized Clavicle Hook Plate Geometry for Average Korean Clavicle–Acromion Dimensions: A Finite Element Analysis Study

• Published in: International journal of precision engineering and manufacturing Vol. 25; no. 7; pp. 1465 - 1473
• Main Authors: Kim, Jong Ho, Jeon, Kyeong Rak, Jun, Hyeong Ju, Son, Gun Woo, Ji, Young Su, An, Je Hoon, Lee, Hyun Ju, Tae, Ki Sik
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Seoul Korean Society for Precision Engineering 2024; Springer Nature B.V
• Subjects: Biomechanical engineering; Biomechanics; Computed tomography; Engineering; Finite element analysis; Finite element method; Fractures; Industrial and Production Engineering; Injuries; Materials Science; Medical imaging; Orthopedics; Regular Paper; Stress distribution; Clavicle hook plate; Finite element analysis (FEM); Clavicle; Acromion
• ISSN: 2234-7593; 2005-4602
• DOI: 10.1007/s12541-024-01028-1

The acromioclavicular joint frequently experiences dislocations and fractures with ligament injuries during traumatic shoulder injuries, with clavicle hook plate fixation being a common treatment method. However, no studies have been conducted on the biomechanical analysis of plates and the average Korean clavicle–acromion dimensions. In this study, finite element analysis (FEA) was used to assess various parameters for biomechanical analysis. To assess the stress distribution in the acromion, clavicle, and plate, FEA models with the implantation of 36 clavicle hook plate models with different hook depths (12 mm, 15 mm, and 18 mm), hook lengths (15 mm, 17 mm, and 19 mm), and hook angles (90°, 95°, 100°, and 105°) were established. Moreover, three-dimensional chest computed tomography (CT) images and scanned CT image data were used for comparisons between the average Korean clavicle–acromion dimensions and the model dimensions. The study shows that the acromion experienced the least stress when the clavicle hook plate had dimensions of 12 mm depth, 19 mm length, and 105° angle. For the clavicle, the lowest stress occurred with a depth of 15 mm, length of 19 mm, and 105° angle. Additionally, the lowest stress on the clavicle hook plate was observed with dimensions of 18 mm depth, 19 mm length, and 100° angle. Based on the results, orthopedic surgeons can make an optimal selection for the plate geometry suitable for the bone length of each patient, which can reduce the incidence of adverse events, such as peri-plate fractures at the acromion or clavicle and postoperative pain due to the burrowing of the plate hook into the acromion.