2022, Vol. 26 ›› Issue (36): 5875-5880

Accurate simulation of stress state in bone joint and related soft tissue injury by three-dimensional finite element analysis

Xiong Hengheng1, Nie Weizhi2     

Abstract: BACKGROUND: As a new digital research method, finite element analysis is more and more popular in orthopedics, and it is more closely related to orthopedics. Through the establishment of finite element three-dimensional model, it has an irreplaceable role in orthopedic biomechanical analysis and medical device research and design.
OBJECTIVE: To review the development prospects of finite element analysis in the field of orthopedics, and provide a basis for promoting better integration of finite element method with orthopedic clinical practice.  
METHODS: Computer search of relevant documents published from 2012 to 2021 was conducted in Wanfang Medical Network, CNKI, PubMed, and Embase. Chinese and English search terms were “finite element analysis”, “biomechanics”, “spine”, “joint”, “trauma”, “osteopathia”, “medical instrument”, “review”. According to the inclusion criteria, 47 relevant documents were finally included for summary.
RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Finite element analysis can accurately simulate and analyze the stress state of bones, joints and related soft tissues. It can play an active role in assisting various clinical departments in orthopedics to identify the pathogenesis and determine the treatment plan. The system is decomposed into several digital models for biomechanical analysis, guiding the research and development and design of medical devices, which greatly promotes the development of clinical diagnosis and treatment technology, and has good development potential. However, in the current use of finite element analysis, there are still problems such as improper use of methods, inaccurate finite element model establishment, and elastic modulus standards. Further development and improvement are needed to make finite element method better meet the needs of clinical and scientific research.
Key words: finite element analysis, biomechanics, spine surgery, joint surgery, trauma and orthopedics, orthopedics, medical device, review