Finite element analysis of an acetabular trial implant

A variable diameter trial liner (VDTL) was designed to reduce the costs related to cleaning, sterilisation and storage of surgical instruments used for total hip arthroplasty. The purpose of this study was to develop a finite element model to evaluate the mechanical behavior of the VDTL before manufacturing of a functional prototype. The finite element analysis consists to identify the maximum stresses applied on the VDTL and compare these values to the yield strength of stainless steel 17-4 (540 MPa) to asses if the VDTL will resist to loading conditions similar to the ones occurring during the surgical procedure. The results demonstrated the need to improve the mechanical strength of the current concept of the VDTL. These results will serve as indications for upcoming design refinements.