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A finite element study of the initiation of failure of fixation in cemented femoral total hip components
Author(s) -
Harrigan T. P.,
Kareh J. A.,
O'Connor D. O.,
Burke D. W.,
Harris W. H.
Publication year - 1992
Publication title -
journal of orthopaedic research
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.041
H-Index - 155
eISSN - 1554-527X
pISSN - 0736-0266
DOI - 10.1002/jor.1100100116
Subject(s) - finite element method , fixation (population genetics) , orthodontics , structural engineering , medicine , engineering , population , environmental health
In order to study initial mechanisms of failure in cemented femoral total hip components, an anatomically accurate three‐dimensional linear finite element model was constructed and verified against experimental strain measurements in the cement mantle. Good agreement was found between predicted and measured strains. The likelihood of failure initiation due to cement‐prosthesis debonding and crack initiation at voids was studied for loading conditions simulating both one‐legged stance and stair climbing. The “out of plane” forces involved in stair climbing appear to be the greatest threat to the fixation of total hip replacements. In stair climbing, cement‐prosthesis debonding and pore crack initiation were probable in the proximal anteromedial region of the cement mantle, and near the distal tip of the implant. The proximal stresses in stair climbing were higher than the distal stresses in either stair climbing or one‐legged stance.