On the importance of precision in cortical bone drilling: Integrating experimental validation and computational modeling.

Background: Cortical bone drilling is integral to orthopedic and dental surgeries, yet challenges such as thermal necrosis persist. Previous finite element (FE) models may overlook critical parameters, impacting accuracy. This study aims to integrate experimental and computational approaches to predict essential parameters-initial temperature, point angle, and spindle speed-enhancing precision in cortical bone drilling. Methods: Bovine cortical samples were utilized to systematically investigate the impact of four independent parameters on maximum temperature (MT) and maximum thrust force (MTF). Parameters included drill bit initial temperature (IT), diameter, point angle, and spindle speed (225-2700 rpm, feed rate 0.5-3 mm/s). Experimental procedures involved an orthopedic handpiece with titanium drill bits. DEFORM-3D V6.02 facilitated FE simulation, with the validated model developed for the second stage of the drilling process. Results: The validated model highlighted the significant impact of drill bit IT on MT, predicting a 26.14 % decrease in final bone temperature as IT decreased from 25 to 5 °C. Increasing the point angle from 70 to 120° resulted in a 13.1 % MT increase and a 26.9 % decrease in MTF. Spindle speed variations exhibited a 48.3 % temperature increase and an 82.8 % MTF decrease. Conclusions: Integrating experimental validation and computational modeling offers a comprehensive approach to predict drilling parameters. Precision in cortical bone drilling can be optimized by selecting specific parameters, including lower drill bit IT, smaller point angles, and controlled spindle speeds. This optimization reduces the risk of bone necrosis and thermal damage, thereby enhancing surgical outcomes.

Comparative finite element analysis of contact and stress distribution in tibiotalar articular cartilage: Healthy versus varus ankles.

Background: The distribution of forces within the ankle joint plays a crucial role in joint health and longevity. Loading disorders affecting the ankle joint can have significant detrimental effects on daily life and activity levels. This study aimed to enhance our understanding of the mechanical behavior of tibiotalar joint articular cartilages in the presence of varus deformity using finite element analysis (FEA) applied to patient-specific models. Methods: Two personalized ankle models, one healthy and another with varus deformity, were created based on CT scan images. Four static loading scenarios were simulated at the center of pressure (COP), coupled to the hindfoot complex. The contact area, contact pressure, and von Mises stress were computed for each cartilage. Results: It was found that the peak contact pressure increased by 54% in the ankle with varus deformity compared to the healthy ankle model. Furthermore, stress concentrations moving medially were observed, particularly beneath the medial malleolus, with an average peak contact pressure of 3.5 MPa and 4.7 MPa at the tibial and talar articular cartilages, respectively. Conclusion: Varus deformities in the ankle region have been consistently linked to elevated contact pressure, increasing the risk of thinning, degeneration, and eventual onset of osteoarthritis (OA), emphasizing the need for prompt interventions aimed at mitigating complications.

Evaluating the effect of functionally graded materials on bone remodeling around dental implants.

OBJECTIVES: This study evaluates the potential for osseointegration and remodeling of customized dental implants made from Titanium-Hydroxyapatite Functionally Graded Material (Ti-HAP FGM) with optimized geometry, using the finite element method (FEM). METHODS: The study utilized CT scan images to model and assemble various geometrical designs of dental implants in a mandibular slice. The mechanical properties of Ti-HAP FGMs were computed by varying volume fractions (VF) of hydroxyapatite (0-20%), and a bone remodeling algorithm was used to evaluate the biomechanical characteristics of the ultimate bone configuration in the peri-implant tissue. RESULTS: The findings of the FEA reveal that osseointegration improves with changes in the density and mechanical properties of the bone surrounding Ti-HAP implants, which are influenced by the varying VF of hydroxyapatite in the FGM. SIGNIFICANCE: Increasing the hydroxyapatite fraction improves osseointegration, and appropriate length and diameter selection of Ti-HAP dental implants contribute to their stability and longevity.