title: [Computerized 3-D model to study biomechanics of the middle ear using the finite element method].
abstract: Based on known data about the behavior of the sound transmission mechanism, we generate a model that reproduces the real mechanics of the middle ear by the finite elements method in the most exact manner possible. We designed a computerized model to simulate the biomechanic behavior of the ear drum/ossicular chain. The investigation focused on a possible clinical application, given that the variables necessary for simulation of several conditions can be introduced in our model: tympanic perforation, fixation of the ossicular chain, chain interruption, etc. Introducing the characteristics of the lesion virtually in a simulator program market is possible to reach conclusions about the conductive hypoacusis created and about therapeutic possibilities. The 3-D modelling of the tympanic membrane, malleus, incus and stapes is presented, considering form, weight, density, Young's module (N/m2) and Poisson coefficient for the different parts of each ossicle. The modeling of the union of the different tympanic-ossicular elements, including muscles and ligaments, is also shown.
authors.affiliation: Hospital Universitario Río Hortega, Cátedra de Otorrinolaringología y Patología Cervico-Facial, Departamento del IMEIM de la Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingenieros Industriales, Universidad de Valladolid.
authors.forename: E
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Gil-Carcedo
authors.forename: B
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Pérez López
authors.forename: L A
authors.initials: LA
authors.lastname: Vallejo
authors.forename: L M
authors.initials: LM
authors.lastname: Gil-Carcedo
authors.forename: F
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Montoya
mesh_terms: D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D004429:Ear Ossicles / Q000502:physiology; D004432:Ear, Middle / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D007090:Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted; D008953:Models, Anatomic; D014432:Tympanic Membrane / Q000502:physiology