Craniofacial osseointegrated implant-induced strain distribution: a numerical study

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Craniofacial Surgery
• Biomechanics

Background:

• Osseointegrated implants are crucial for craniofacial reconstruction.
• Understanding stress distribution around implants is vital for long-term success.
• Craniofacial bone presents unique challenges due to its complex structure and varying density.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare strain distributions in craniofacial bone surrounding different implant designs.
• To evaluate implant performance under axial loading and combined axial/moment loading.
• To analyze the influence of bone configuration and implant neck diameter on strain.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the finite element method (FEM) for analysis.
• Simulated three commercially available implant designs.
• Tested under axial loading and axial loading with a moment.
• Evaluated in three distinct craniofacial bone configurations.

Main Results:

• Similar strain levels were observed for all implant designs under axial loading across bone configurations.
• Applying moments alongside vertical loads resulted in 3-7 times higher strains.
• Strain variations among implant designs increased significantly when moments were applied.
• Results correlated strain variations with the amount of available bone and implant neck diameter.

Conclusions:

• Implant design choice is less critical under simple axial loading in craniofacial applications.
• Combined loading conditions (axial + moment) reveal greater sensitivity to implant design and surrounding bone.
• Implant neck diameter and local bone availability are key factors influencing strain distribution under complex loading scenarios.