Three‑dimensional finite element analysis: Anatomical splint fixation for Colles fractures

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic biomechanics
• Digital imaging in medicine
• Finite element analysis

Background:

• Clinical orthopedics increasingly uses digital research for evaluating treatment efficacy and safety.
• Understanding biomechanical implications of splint fixation for Colles fractures is crucial but currently limited.
• Three-dimensional (3D) finite element analysis offers a powerful tool for detailed biomechanical evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a comprehensive biomechanical evaluation of anatomical splint fixation for Colles fractures using 3D finite element analysis.
• To provide insights for enhancing the clinical effectiveness of anatomical splint fixation in managing Colles fractures.
• To analyze stress distribution in soft tissues and anatomical splints under different forearm positions.

Main Methods:

• Constructed validated 3D finite element models of the forearm and hand from computed tomography data of a Colles fracture patient.
• Simulated a Colles fracture by adjusting material properties and performed reduction functions (e.g., radial inclination, ulnar deviation).
• Applied anatomical splints to the 3D models at various positions to analyze stress distribution (stress cloud diagrams) on soft tissues and splints.

Main Results:

• The 3D finite element models were validated for accuracy.
• Maximum splint stress was highest in supination (3.045 MPa), while maximum soft tissue stress was highest in pronation (0.106 MPa).
• Peak splint stress occurred during supination, contrasting with peak soft tissue stress in pronation.

Conclusions:

• Anatomical splint fixation in median rotation can effectively avoid compression of local soft tissues.
• Biomechanical analysis using 3D finite element models provides valuable data for optimizing splinting techniques in Colles fracture management.
• Understanding stress patterns is key to improving the safety and efficacy of orthopedic splinting.