Biomechanical Analysis of Wrist under Axial Static Compressive Force on Metacarpals / 航天医学与医学工程

ABSTRACT

Objective To study the force and pressure transmission through normal wrist,and the effect of transverse carpal ligament release on the biomechanics of carpal tunnel.Methods A 3-D finite element model of the wrist based on CT scan images was established.The load transmission of carpus and the distribution of contact stress on radiocarpal joint under axial compressive force on metacarpals as well as the effect of transverse carpal ligament(TCL)release on the displacement of carpal bones were computed and analyzed.Results The computational results of force and pressure transmission through normal carpus matched well with previous studies.The release of TCL resulted in radial and palmar displacement of the scaphoid,flexion and radial rotation of radiocarpal joint as well as a further radial deviation of the whole carpal tunnel.Conclusion A 3-D finite element model of the wrist that includes the carpal tunnel,distal radius and ulna and proximal metacarpals is developed.This model may simulate the load transmission better and contact stress distribution of carpal tunnel and radiocarpal joint,as well as provide an operational plateform for further deeply studing on biomechanical behavior of carpal structure.The computed and analyzed results of the effect of TCL release on the displacements of carpal bones can be served as related theoratic base on carpal tunnel syndrome,carpal tunnel release surgery and recovery after operation.