Mechanical analysis and finite element modeling of rabbit patellar tendon and tendon insertion under different mechanical conditions

doi:10.12307/2024.017

Abstract

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The patella-patellar tendon junction is a high-incidence area of injury in patellar tendinopathy. The rabbit patella-patellar tendon injury model is a commonly used animal experimental research object. At present, the stress analysis of the injury mechanism and modeling method is not comprehensive.
OBJECTIVE: Based on the previous histological and mechanical measurements, this study used micro CT to scan and model the whole patella, the patella-patellar tendon junction and the tendon quadriceps junction, to analyze the characteristics of changes in stress, and explore the potential impact of different forms of exercise on patellar tendon degeneration so as to provide a theoretical basis for injury prevention and animal model establishment.
METHODS: Female healthy adult New Zealand rabbits were selected to study the patella and tendons at both ends of the left knee joint. After the material was taken, the samples were scanned and saved with micro CT. Mimics, Geomagic Studio and SolidWorks were used to establish a three-dimensional model. Finite element analysis was carried out with Ansys Workbench. The equivalent displacement, stress and strain of the target region were analyzed under different loading conditions (load size and direction changes, different action modes).
RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) Load direction change affected trend and value change; load size change affected value change. (2) Compared with other areas, the stress concentration was more obvious at the insertion point of the patellar tendon, and the strain value was the lowest. (3) At the insertion point of the patellar tendon, the stress concentration was greater in valgus than in varus and pronation than in extorsion. (4) The stress concentration effect and stress shielding during knee flexion and extension are the main causes of patellar tendon insertion injury. The stress in pronation and valgus states is also a potential factor leading to damage, which needs further study. The animal model established by jumping and running is more in line with the characteristics of sports injury.

Key words: tendinopathy, injury molding, finite element analysis, stress, animal model

CLC Number:

Wang Li, Wang Bo. Mechanical analysis and finite element modeling of rabbit patellar tendon and tendon insertion under different mechanical conditions[J]. Chinese Journal of Tissue Engineering Research, 2024, 28(12): 1829-1836.

Figures/Tables 12

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