title: Impact response and simulation of damaged ulna with internal fixation.
abstract: The objectives of this work were to explore a methodology that combines static and dynamic finite element (FE) analysis, linear elastic fracture mechanics (LEFM) and experimental methods to investigate a worst-case scenario in which a previously damaged bone plate system is subjected to an impact load. Cadaver ulnas with and without midshaft dynamic compression plates are subjected to a static three-point bend test and loaded such that subcritical crack growth occurs as predicted by a hybrid method that couples LEFM and static FE. The plated and unplated bones are then unloaded and subsequently subjected to a midshaft transverse impact test. A dynamic strain-based FE model is also developed to model the midshaft transverse impact test. The average value of the impact energy required for failure was observed to be 10.53% greater for the plated set. There appears to be a trade-off between impact damage and impact resistance when ulnas are supported by fixation devices. Predictions from the dynamic FE model are shown to corroborate inferences from the experimental approach.
authors.affiliation: Armstrong Atlantic State University, Savannah, GA, USA.
authors.forename: Cameron
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Coates
authors.forename: Priya
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Goeser
authors.forename: Camille
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Coates-Clark
authors.forename: Mark
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Jenkins
mesh_terms: D000054:Acceleration; D001860:Bone Plates; D003198:Computer Simulation; D019544:Equipment Failure Analysis; D020342:Finite Element Analysis; D006801:Humans; D016268:Internal Fixators; D008954:Models, Biological; D011474:Prosthesis Design; D013314:Stress, Mechanical; D014457:Ulna / Q000293:injuries* / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000601:surgery; D014458:Ulna Fractures / Q000503:physiopathology*