Finite element simulation and experimental test of normal coracoclavicular ligament and flexible reconstruction

doi:10.12307/2024.262

Abstract

Abstract: BACKGROUND: For dislocation of acromioclavicular joint induced by coracoclavicular ligament fracture, single EndoButton Plate reconstruction and double EndoButton Plates reconstruction are common repair methods. Further study on the stress distribution and fracture risk of the two repair methods is of great significance.
OBJECTIVE: To study the biomechanical properties of the coracoclavicular ligament, and compare the fixation effect, stress distribution and failure mode of single and double EndoButton Plates reconstruction.
METHODS: (1) Finite element simulation analysis: Mimics, Wrap and SolidWorks were used to establish normal coracoclavicular ligament, single EndoButton Plate reconstruction and double EndoButton Plates reconstruction. Ansys software was used to analyze the stress and deformation of the scapula and clavicle of each model under vertical load. (2) Sample experiment: Fifteen intact scapular-clavicle specimens were randomly grouped into five groups, with three specimens in each group. In group A, the acromioclavicular ligament was severed and the coracoclavicular ligament remained intact. In group B, acromioclavicular ligaments and trapeoid ligaments were severed, leaving intact conical ligaments. In group C, acromioclavicular ligaments and conical ligaments were cut off, and the intact traprex ligaments were retained. In group D, acromioclavicular and coracoclavicular ligaments were severed, and coracoclavicular ligaments were repaired by single EndoButton Plate reconstruction. In group E, acromioclavicular and coracoclavicular ligaments were severed, and the coracoclavicular ligaments were repaired by double EndoButton Plates reconstruction. The mechanical experiment was carried out by a mechanical testing machine to analyze the biomechanical status, stress distribution and failure patterns of the scapular-clavicle and clavicle.
RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) Finite element simulation analysis: The average stress of coracoclavicular ligament attached specimens was the lowest, and the risk of coracoclavicular fracture was less than that of single and double EndoButton Plates reconstruction. The mean stress of the coracoid process was similar in single and double EndoButton Plates reconstruction, and the fracture risk was similar. (2) Sample experiment: In groups A, B, C, D and E, the stiffness of specimens was (26.4±3.5), (19.8±2.8), (21.3±3.2), (57.7±4.1), and (46.2±2.8) N/mm, respectively; the ultimate loads were (545.5±53.7), (360.1±42.1), (250.9±44.4), (643.5±39.1), and (511.9±31.7) N, respectively; global stiffness in groups D and E was higher than that in group A (P=0.000 06, 0.000 3); ultimate load in group D was higher than that in group A (P < 0.05); the ultimate load was not significantly different between the group E and group A (P > 0.05). Ligament fracture was observed in groups A, B and C and coracoid process fracture was found in groups D and E. (3) These results suggest that from the biomechanical analysis, Single EndoButton Plate reconstruction and double EndoButton Plates reconstruction are effective treatment techniques for coracoclavicular ligament fracture in acromioclavicular joint dislocation, but increase the risk of fracture. The double EndoButton Plates reconstruction dispersed the stress of the steel plate and reduced the contact force between the steel plate and bone, but slightly reduced the ultimate bearing capacity. Single and double EndoButton Plates reconstruction should be selected according to the actual clinical situation.

Key words: coracoclavicular ligament, flexible reconstruction, single EndoButton Plate reconstruction, double EndoButton Plates reconstruction, finite element analysis, biomechanics

CLC Number:

Ji Guizhu, Zheng Qiu, Wang Wuxiang, Wang Guan, Li Wen, Lu Xiaobo, Duan Ke, Li Zhong, Yang Hongbin, Liang Cheng. Finite element simulation and experimental test of normal coracoclavicular ligament and flexible reconstruction[J]. Chinese Journal of Tissue Engineering Research, 2024, 28(5): 706-711.

Figures/Tables 4

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