Biomechanical models: key considerations in study design

Abstract

This manuscript summarizes presentations of a symposium on key considerations in design of biomechanical models at the 2019 Basic Science Focus Forum of the Orthopaedic Trauma Association. The first section outlines the most important characteristics of a high-quality biomechanical study. The second section considers choices associated with designing experiments using finite element modeling versus synthetic bones versus human specimens. The third section discusses appropriate selection of experimental protocols and finite element analyses. The fourth section considers the pros and cons of use of biomechanical research for implant design. Finally, the fifth section examines how results from biomechanical studies can be used when clinical evidence is lacking or contradictory. When taken together, these presentations emphasize the critical importance of biomechanical research and the need to carefully consider and optimize models when designing a biomechanical study.

Keywords: biomechanical study; experimental protocols; finite element modeling; implant design; synthetic bones.

Figure 1

Schematic showing that locking plate stress accumulation over time and thus fatigue failure can be inaccurately predicted by in vitro testing (^∗star) when comparing the performance of different implants or materials in a static setup ignoring the healing tissue (Compare MacLeod et al., 2015). Courtesy of Dr Mark Heyland, Berlin Germany.