Three-dimensional Finite Element Analysis Of A Modified Proximal Humeral Locking Plate For The Treatment Of Proximal Humeral Fractures

ObjectiveTo apply a three-dimensional finite element analysis technique to biomechanically evaluate the proximal humeral Neer fracture after treatment with two internal fixation systems,namely PHILOS plate and modified proximal humeral locking plate.And to provide a mechanical basis for its application to proximal humeral fractures by comparing the stress and displacement clouds of the humerus and the internal fixation model.The clinical efficacy of proximal humeral fractures treated with modified proximal humeral locking plates was analysed and evaluated through a prospective case study to provide a reference for the clinical treatment of proximal humeral fractures.MethodsThe CT data of the humerus was obtained by CT scanning.A valid 3D finite element model of the humerus and internal fixation was constructed using the relevant software for finite element analysis.Based on this model,a three-part fracture of the proximal humerus Neer was simulated.The PHILOS plate and modified proximal humeral plate were applied for fixation assembly.The internal fixation model of the fracture was loaded to observe the stress distribution and displacement of the two humeral internal fixation finite element models under the conditions of horizontal load plus axial load.ResultsThe stress and displacement clouds of the humerus and internal fixation obtained by finite element analysis were analysed and compared.The maximum displacement of the humerus in the short plate group and the maximum displacement of the internal fixation were less than those in the extended plate group.In contrast,the stress in the humerus was approximately equal to that in the vast plate group.The maximum pressure in the internal fixation was greater than that in the extended plate group.ConclusionWhen the PHILOS plate is used with a modified proximal humeral plate to fix a three-part fracture of the proximal humerus,the modified proximal humeral plate internal fixation device provides better biomechanical stability and can effectively fix the proximal humeral fracture.