Three layer impact simulation for large cranioplasty using non-linear finite element model

In this study, we conducted biomechanical study about implant material and behavior of large cranioplasty upon post-operative impact injury. Previous studies utilized a surface model of the skull and large cranium patch (defect area is 46.7 cm2)[1,2,3,4]. It had single layer with thickness of adult skull as 7 cm in the parietal bone. After construction of the finite element model, the mesh and node data were analyzed for the static behavior of the patch. Four-node and three-node quadrilateral shell elements were mainly used in this model to adapt easily to complex shapes. The overall model consists of 4,740 nodes, 2,168 solid elements, and 4,736 shell elements. Even though, the elements could demonstrate the displacement, stress, and strain by longitudinal along the force direction, subsequent result could not reveal the dynamic behavior of the model. Normal adult skull is consisting of three layers (inner, outer and diploë layer). This structure resembles composite materials that behave differently upon impact. In order to overcome limitation of previous model, we designed physiological model and analyzed dynamic behavior with new implant materials. The composite implant with two popular materials and middle polymer layer was evaluated and compared with bony material.