A workflow for the creation of specimen-specific finite element models based on open-source software - a feasibility...

Specimen-specific Finite Element (FE) models support personalized biomechanics but commercial software costs limit accessibility. Open-source tools offer alternatives, though complete workflows remain difficult. This study evaluated feasibility using primarily open-source software by reproducing a vertebral body FE study. CT images of a porcine cervical vertebra were segmented in 3D Slicer, refined in MeshMixer, converted in FreeCAD, and meshed in Ansys due to BoneMat dependencies. Material properties were mapped from Hounsfield Units. The model reproduced geometry, distribution, and mechanical response with <8% differences and no significant load-displacement variation. Limitations include tool incompatibility, yet the workflow reduces cost and improves accessibility.