Vet Comp Orthop Traumatol 2020; 33(02): 121-129
DOI: 10.1055/s-0039-3399576
Original Research
Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Finite Element Analysis of Six Transcortical Pin Parameters and Their Effect on Bone–Pin Interface Stresses in the Equine Third Metacarpal Bone

Timothy B. Lescun
1   Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, United States
,
Stephen B. Adams
1   Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, United States
,
Russell P. Main
2   Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, United States
,
Eric A. Nauman
3   Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, United States
,
Gert J. Breur
1   Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, United States
› Author Affiliations
Funding This study was supported by the State of Indiana and the Purdue University School of Veterinary Medicine Research account funded by the Total Wagers Tax.
Further Information

Publication History

30 March 2019

03 October 2019

Publication Date:
13 December 2019 (online)

Abstract

Objective The objectives of this study were to validate a finite element model of the equine distal limb transfixation cast and to determine the effect of six transcortical pin parameters on bone–pin interface (BPI) stresses in the third metacarpal bone.

Study Design A transfixation cast finite element model was developed from a computed tomography scan of the third metacarpal bone and modelled pin elements. The model was validated by comparing strain measured around a 6.3-mm transfixation pin in the third metacarpal bone with the finite element model. The pin parameters of diameter, number, location, spacing, orientation and material were evaluated by comparing a variety of pin configurations within the model.

Results Pin diameter and number had the greatest impact on BPI stress. Increasing the diameter and number of pins resulted in lower BPI stresses. Diaphyseal pin location and stainless-steel pins had lower BPI stresses than metaphyseal location and titanium alloy pins, respectively. Offset pin orientation and pin spacing had minimal impact on BPI stresses during axial loading.

Conclusion The results provide evidence that diameter and number are the main pin parameters affecting BPI stress in an equine distal limb transfixation cast. Configurations of various pin size and number may be proposed to reduce BPI stresses and minimize the risk of pin related complications. Further refinement of these models will be required to optimize pin configurations to account for pin hole size and its impact on overall bone strength.

Authors’ Contributions

Timothy Lescun contributed to conception of study, study design, acquisition of data and data analysis and interpretation. Stephen Adams and Eric Nauman contributed to conception of study and study design. Russell Main contributed to acquisition of data and data analysis and interpretation. Gert Breur contributed to conception of study, study design and data analysis and interpretation. All authors drafted, revised and approved the submitted manuscript.


 
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