Three-Dimensional Modelling and Finite Element Analysis of an Ankle External Fixator

Abstract:

The use of ankle external fixator to treat pilon fracture Type III is popular amongst surgeons as it can reduce complications such as non-union and mal-union. Even though configurations of the connecting bars are important, the material also plays a major factor for a successful outcome. In this paper, the Delta external fixator with simulated ankle pilon fractures Type III were modelled and analysed under two different materials; titanium alloy and stainless steel. The finite element model includes tibia, fibula, talus, calcaneus, cuboid, navicular, three cuneiforms and five metatarsals bone. To simulate the pilon fractures Type III, a cutting segment was utilised. The ligaments were assigned with linear spring properties and cartilages were modelled using Mooney-Rivlin hyper-elastic behaviour. The Delta external fixator was designed using a three-dimensional software with two different material properties - titanium alloy and stainless steel. High von Mises stress concentrated at the pin-bone interface with the highest value observed for the titanium fixation. The results also showed less deformation for the stainless steel compared to titanium.

• Periodical: Advanced Materials Research (Volume 845)
• Pages: 183-188
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/AMR.845.183
• Online since: December 2013
• Authors: Muhammad Hanif Ramlee, Mohammed Rafiq Abdul Kadir*, Habibollah Harun
• Keywords: Biomechanics, Delta External Fixator, Finite Element Analysis (FEA), Pilon Fractures

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