In Silico Optimization of Femoral Fixator Position and Configuration by Parametric CAD Model

Structural analysis, based on the finite element method, and structural optimization, can help surgery planning or decrease the probability of fixator failure during bone healing. Structural optimization implies the creation of many finite element model instances, usually built using a computer-aided design (CAD) model of the bone-fixator assembly. The three most important features of such CAD models are: parameterization, robustness and bidirectional associativity with finite elements (FE) models. Their significance increases with the increase in the complexity of the modeled fixator. The aim of this study was to define an automated procedure for the configuration and placement of fixators used in the treatment of long bone fractures. Automated and robust positioning of the selfdynamisable internal fixator on the femur was achieved and sensitivity analysis of fixator stress on the change of major design parameters was performed. The application of the proposed methodology is considered to be beneficial in the preparation of CAD models for automated structural optimization procedures used in long bone fixation

In Silico Optimization of Femoral Fixator Position and Configuration by Parametric CAD Model

Structural analysis, based on the finite element method, and structural optimization, can help surgery planning or decrease the probability of fixator failure during bone healing. Structural optimization implies the creation of many finite element model instances, usually built using a computer-aided design (CAD) model of the bone-fixator assembly. The three most important features of such CAD models are: parameterization, robustness and bidirectional associativity with finite elements (FE) models. Their significance increases with the increase in the complexity of the modeled fixator. The aim of this study was to define an automated procedure for the configuration and placement of fixators used in the treatment of long bone fractures. Automated and robust positioning of the selfdynamisable internal fixator on the femur was achieved and sensitivity analysis of fixator stress on the change of major design parameters was performed. The application of the proposed methodology is considered to be beneficial in the preparation of CAD models for automated structural optimization procedures used in long bone fixation

Holistic Approach in Designing the Personalized Bone Scaffold: The Case of Reconstruction of Large Missing Piece of Mandible Caused by Congenital Anatomic Anomaly

The paper reports on the importance of applying the holistic approach in designing a personalized bone scaffold, but also all other kinds of personalized implants. In addition, the paper attempts to point out the important aspects of the design of a PBS against which the quality of a realistic and applicable design solution should be assessed. The holistic approach refers to the adaptation of design features of a bone scaffold to the multilateral specifics related to the particular patient, its surgical case, and curing treatment. To ensure a successful application, five aspects of personalized bone scaffold design should be considered while it is being adapted: anatomical congruency, mechanical conformity, biochemical compatibility and biodegradability, manufacturability, and implantability. To demonstrate the importance of applying a holistic approach in designing a personalized bone scaffold, the paper shows a case where a patient-specific scaffold aimed at the reconstruction of a large missing piece of mandible was designed. The research resulted in a series of recommendations regarding the methods of bone geometry reconstruction and scaffold design. The paper sheds new light on the desired mechanical properties of a personalized bone scaffold while also recommending possible design parameters for optimizing the construction according to these properties. Finally, it recommends a possible procedure of integral production of personalized bone scaffold and bone graft. The presented so-called holistic approach announces a new systematic process of designing a personalized bone scaffold, which, although requiring a comprehensive consideration of complex requirements, is inevitable to make the designed solution applicable