3-D modeling and finite element analysis of the tibia

A 3-D solid model of the human tibia and the fibula was constructed using magnetic resonance imaging and solid modeling software. A finite element analysis of the tibia was conducted to evaluate stresses developed in the tibia under static loads and to study the effect of varying material properties on these stresses. Loading conditions and material properties used were taken from literature. Two finite element models were taken into consideration. A model of the tibial post up to a length of 130 mm was studied to compare results to previous literature and a model of the whole tibia under similar loading conditions was analyzed. Maximum stresses developed for cancellous bone were within ultimate stress values and a tendency of the cancellous bone to distribute stresses to regions of compact or cortical bone was observed.<
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