Development of a three-dimensional finite element model for carpal load transmission in a static neutral posture

• Published in: Annals of biomedical engineering Vol. 31; no. 6; pp. 718 - 725
• Main Authors: Carrigan, Shawn D, Whiteside, Robert A, Pichora, David R, Small, Carolyn F
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Springer Nature B.V 01.06.2003
• Subjects: Algorithms; Carpal Bones - diagnostic imaging; Carpal Bones - physiology; Cartilage, Articular - diagnostic imaging; Cartilage, Articular - physiology; Compressive Strength; Computed tomography; Computer Simulation; Elasticity; Finite Element Analysis; Humans; Imaging, Three-Dimensional - methods; Ligaments - diagnostic imaging; Ligaments - physiology; Models, Biological; Posture - physiology; Pressure; Radiography; Reproducibility of Results; Sensitivity and Specificity; Stress, Mechanical; Studies; Weight-Bearing - physiology; Wrist Joint - diagnostic imaging; Wrist Joint - physiology
• ISSN: 0090-6964; 1573-9686
• DOI: 10.1114/1.1574027

A three-dimensional developmental finite element model has been created to analyze load transmission pathways in the constrained carpus during static compressive loading. The bone geometry was extracted from an in vivo computed tomography scan using a combination of commercial and proprietary software. The complete geometry, including bone, cartilage, and ligament tissues, was compiled using a commercial finite element program. This model extends the state of biomechanical modeling by being the first to incorporate all eight carpal bones of the wrist and the related soft tissues in three dimensions. The model results indicate that cartilage material modulus and unconstrained carpal rotation have substantial impacts on the articular contact patterns and pressures.