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Finite Element Analysis to Study Tensile Strength Differences between Free and Attached Ear Lobules
Madhubari Vathulya1, Subrato Sarkar2, Vaishali Verma3
1Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, India.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Global Open
|January 20, 2023
Summary
This study analyzed ear lobule tensile strength using finite element analysis. Free ear lobules demonstrated lower tensile strength compared to attached ear lobules, suggesting structural differences impact strength.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanical Engineering
- Plastic Surgery
- Anatomy
Background:
- Recurrent ear lobule deformity presents aesthetic challenges.
- Traditional lobuloplasty techniques are often modified with autologous tissues for improved structural integrity.
- Repiercing strategies away from the scar are also considered.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the biomechanical differences in tensile strength between free and attached ear lobules.
- To utilize finite element analysis (FEA) to quantify these differences.
- To inform surgical approaches for ear lobule reconstruction.
Main Methods:
- Collected 3D scans of 18 healthy female volunteers (8 attached, 10 free ear lobules).
- Utilized Geomagic software to digitally convert lobules to their opposite form (free to attached, attached to free).
- Performed finite element analysis to estimate yield maximum stress and maximum load at 0.7 strain for both forms.
Main Results:
- Finite element analysis revealed lower yield maximum stress and corresponding load in free ear lobules compared to attached ear lobules.
- The study quantified a significant difference in tensile strength based on ear lobule attachment type.
- Digital manipulation allowed for comparative analysis of lobule forms.
Conclusions:
- Structural variations between free and attached ear lobules result in differences in tensile strength.
- Surgical modifications altering ear lobule structure may impact its mechanical properties.
- Further clinical trials are necessary to translate these biomechanical findings into clinical practice.
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