Design and analysis of coupling methods for modular endoprosthetic systems as an alternative to the conical coupling.

Modular endoprostheses are often used in bone tumor management. However, the conical coupling that connects the various modules has several shortcomings. As an alternative, four new couplings have been developed. To find out if they have sufficient strength and show no movement during loading, each coupling was analysed using the finite element method. Bolt force and friction coefficient was varied to examine their influence. From the analysis it was concluded that coupling B, a dovetail coupling, meets all requirements and is the best alternative to the conical coupling. Sensitivity to bolt force and friction coefficient is very limited.