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Structural properties of 6 forearm ligaments.
Frederick W Werner1, Jennifer L Taormina, Levi G Sutton
1Department of Orthopedic Surgery, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA. wernerf@upstate.edu
The Journal of Hand Surgery
|November 22, 2011
Summary
The central band of the interosseous membrane is the stiffest forearm ligament. Reconstructions should use grafts with nonlinear loading responses, mimicking native ligaments for better forearm stability.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Anatomy
Background:
- Forearm ligaments are crucial for stability.
- Understanding their mechanical properties is key for effective surgical reconstruction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the structural properties of six forearm ligaments.
- To develop linear and nonlinear analytical models for each ligament based on these properties.
Main Methods:
- Nondestructive testing of seven cadaver forearms.
- Testing included annular, dorsal and palmar radioulnar, and interosseous ligaments (distal, central, proximal bands).
- Ligaments were tested in neutral, supinated, and pronated positions using a servohydraulic apparatus.
Main Results:
- The central band of the interosseous membrane exhibited the highest linear stiffness across all forearm positions.
- Ligament stiffness varied significantly with forearm rotation, particularly for the distal band and dorsal radioulnar ligament in supination.
- Nonlinear stiffness models provided a more accurate representation of experimental loading behavior than linear models.
Conclusions:
- The central band of the interosseous membrane is the primary stabilizing structure of the forearm.
- Forearm ligament reconstructions should utilize grafts with nonlinear responses to loading, mimicking native ligament behavior.
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