Journal of Musculoskeletal Trauma

Original Article

Biomechanical Analysis of Hybrid External Fixation for the Distal Tibial Fractures: A FEM Study: Duk Young Jung, Boug Ju Kim, Seok Bae Ryu, Jong Keon Oh; J Korean Fract Soc 2004;17(2):160-166. Published online April 30, 2004; DOI: https://doi.org/10.12671/jkfs.2004.17.2.160

Abstract PDF: PURPOSE
To analyze the biomechanical effects of different frame configurations of the hybrid external fixators for distal tibial fractures on the frame stiffness and stress distribution with a finite element method (FEM).
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Five configurations were simulated: Group I: two wires with convergence angle of 60degrees, Group II: 3rd wire on a bisector axis of the group I. Group III: two wires with 30degrees. Group IV: 3rd wire on a bisector axis. Group V: two wires with 30degree and a half pin on the distal articular fragment. Each group was simulated under compression, torsion, anterior-posterior and lateral-medial bending load. Stiffness, stress and deformation values were calculated.
RESULTS
The overall stiffness was increased by 15~30% with the addition of a third wire, and by 150~400% with a anteromedial half pin on the articular fragment. The half pin decreased the stress level of the frame by about 43% and the deformation of the 5/8 ring by about 30%.
CONCLUSION
The addition of a half pin on the articular fragment is not only a method of increasing the stiffness but also a way of decreasing the stress concentration and the deformation of the frame.

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