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Load transmission characteristics of limited carpal fusions: a two-dimensional finite element study

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European Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery & Traumatology Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Although limited carpal fusion is a choice of treatment in several wrist disorders, little is known about the biomechanics of these procedures, especially the loads carried by the ligaments. In a finite element study, four types of limited carpal fusions (scaphotrapeziotrapezoid, capitohamate, four corner fusion with and without scaphoid excision) were simulated and the loads carried by the ligaments were recorded. Measurements were repeated with and without implantation. The load transmission through the ligaments varied by the type of the fusion but, radioscaphoid and long radiolunate ligaments carried significantly more loads if not excised during the operation. Implantation did not affect the results in most cases. The model of the present study may be useful in preoperative planning.

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The experiments comply with the current laws of the country in which they were performed.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, School of Medicine, Dokuz Eylül University Hospital, 35340, Balcova, İzmir, Turkey

    A. C. Bicen & I. Gunal

  2. Department of Civil Engineering, Eskişehir Osmangazi University, Eskisehir, Turkey

    H. Gokdemir & R. Aydin

  3. Department of Orthopaedics, Eskişehir Osmangazi University Hospital, Eskisehir, Turkey

    S. Seber

Authors
  1. A. C. Bicen
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  2. H. Gokdemir
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  3. S. Seber
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  4. R. Aydin
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  5. I. Gunal
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Correspondence to I. Gunal.

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Bicen, A.C., Gokdemir, H., Seber, S. et al. Load transmission characteristics of limited carpal fusions: a two-dimensional finite element study. Eur J Orthop Surg Traumatol 25, 305–308 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00590-014-1495-z

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00590-014-1495-z

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