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Strength analysis of clavicle fracture fixation devices and fixation techniques using finite element analysis with musculoskeletal force input

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Abstract

In the cases, when clavicle fractures are treated with a fixation plate, opinions are divided about the best position of the plate, type of plate and type of screw units. Results from biomechanical studies of clavicle fixation devices are contradictory, probably partly because of simplified and varying load cases used in different studies. The anatomy of the shoulder region is complex, which makes it difficult and expensive to perform realistic experimental tests; hence, reliable simulation is an important complement to experimental tests. In this study, a method for finite element simulations of stresses in the clavicle plate and bone is used, in which muscle and ligament force data are imported from a multibody musculoskeletal model. The stress distribution in two different commercial plates, superior and anterior plating position and fixation including using a lag screw in the fracture gap or not, was compared. Looking at the clavicle fixation from a mechanical point of view, the results indicate that it is a major benefit to use a lag screw to fixate the fracture. The anterior plating position resulted in lower stresses in the plate, and the anatomically shaped plate is more stress resistant and stable than a regular reconstruction plate.

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Acknowledgments

This work was funded by the Swedish Agency for Economic and Regional Growth (Tillväxtverket) and the European Regional Development Fund. The author would also like to thank tutor Mats Tinnsten and assistant tutors Lars-Erik Rännar and Mikael Bäckström for their contribution to the study.

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  1. Department of Quality, Mechanics and Mathematics, Mid Sweden University, Akademigatan 1, 831 25, Östersund, Sweden

    Cronskär Marie

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Correspondence to Cronskär Marie.

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Marie, C. Strength analysis of clavicle fracture fixation devices and fixation techniques using finite element analysis with musculoskeletal force input. Med Biol Eng Comput 53, 759–769 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11517-015-1288-5

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11517-015-1288-5

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