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In Silico Modeling of Stress Distribution in the Diseased Ankle Joint
Jacek Lorkowski1,2, Miroslaw W Mrzyglod3, Mieczyslaw Pokorski4
1Faculty of Physics and Engineering Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, UK.
Journal of Clinical Medicine
|September 28, 2024
Summary
Subchondral bone cysts in the ankle joint significantly increase stress, especially when centrally located. Increased body weight further exacerbates this stress, highlighting the impact of degenerative changes.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Computational modeling
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common age-related degenerative joint disease.
- Subchondral cysts are a characteristic feature of advanced OA.
- Understanding stress distribution in diseased joints is crucial for OA management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the influence of subchondral cysts on ankle joint stress distribution using in silico modeling.
- To assess the impact of body weight intensity on stress patterns in simulated osteoarthritic ankle joints.
Main Methods:
- Two-dimensional finite element modeling (FEM) was employed.
- Simulations included various cyst configurations (solitary, multiple, none) and locations (central, peripheral) in the talus and tibia.
- Scenarios were analyzed at increased body weight levels.
Main Results:
- Centrally located subchondral cysts, particularly a solitary one in the talus or two central cysts in the talus and tibia, significantly increased peak stress compared to healthy controls.
- Increased body weight consistently elevated strain on the ankle joint.
- Peripherally located cysts did not significantly alter stress distribution.
Conclusions:
- Subchondral central cysts substantially enhance ankle joint stress in a body weight-dependent manner.
- FEM can predict stress alterations in subchondral bone, potentially aiding in optimizing OA management strategies.
- Further clinical validation of FEM predictions is recommended.
