Considerations for reporting finite element analysis studies in biomechanics

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Computational Biology
• Medical Simulation

Background:

• Simulation-based medicine and complex biological models are crucial for biomedical engineering and clinical research.
• Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is widely used in biomechanics for predicting mechanical phenomena.
• Increasing complexity in FEA models has led to opaque decision-making processes, questioning model reliability for medical applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify resources and reporting parameters for Finite Element Analysis (FEA) studies in biomechanics.
• To enhance the transparency, reproducibility, and reusability of biomechanical models.
• To establish confidence in simulation-based medical research through improved reporting.

Main Methods:

• Literature review to identify existing resources and reporting practices.
• Development of proposed reporting parameters covering model identification, structure, simulation, verification, validation, and availability.
• Categorization of reporting parameters to facilitate selective implementation.

Main Results:

• A comprehensive set of reporting parameters for FEA studies in biomechanics has been identified.
• The proposed parameters address critical aspects of model development and simulation.
• Selective application of these parameters can establish a level of confidence in model reliability.

Conclusions:

• Detailed reporting in FEA studies is essential for enhancing reproducibility and reusability.
• Implementing standardized reporting guidelines will bolster the value and sharing of biomechanical models.
• This work provides a framework for improving the decision-making process in simulation-based medical analysis.