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Cortical bone drilling: An experimental and numerical study.
Khurshid Alam1, Issam M Bahadur1, Naseer Ahmed2
1Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, College of Engineering, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman.
Summary
A new Finite Element (FE) model accurately simulates bone drilling forces and torques. This FE model helps optimize surgical drilling by identifying feed rate as the key factor influencing drilling outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanical Engineering
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Materials Science
Background:
- Bone drilling is a critical surgical technique in orthopedics, dentistry, and neurosurgery.
- Controlled drill penetration is essential for safe and effective bone procedures.
- High pressure is often required in conventional bone drilling, necessitating improved methods.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a Finite Element (FE) model for simulating cortical bone drilling.
- To analyze the mechanical stresses and forces involved in the bone drilling process.
- To establish a computational tool for understanding and optimizing bone drilling kinematics.
Main Methods:
- Experimental drilling on bovine cortical bone samples.
- Development of a Finite Element (FE) model incorporating bone mechanical properties.
- Microindentation tests to determine bone material properties for the FE model.
Main Results:
- Simulations showed stress decreasing exponentially from the drill bit.
- Feed rate significantly influenced drilling force and torque in both simulations and experiments.
- Drilling speed did not notably affect thrust force and torque in simulations.
- Simulated results closely matched experimental data, validating the FE model.
Conclusions:
- Finite Element (FE) modeling is a viable approach for simulating complex bone drilling kinematics.
- The validated FE model provides insights into stress distribution and influential parameters.
- This modeling approach can aid in enhancing the safety and efficiency of surgical bone drilling procedures.
