Computational Modeling of Implant Subsidence Over Heterogeneous Tissue Boundaries

Description

In this presentation from the ISTA 2024 conference held in Nashville, the speaker, Stewart McLachlin, acknowledges co-author Remy Benais for his significant contributions to a study concerning interbody implants used in spinal surgeries. They emphasize the challenges of implant subsidence, particularly axial and rotational subsidence, which affects a substantial percentage of patients and undermines surgical correction and spinal alignment. A modeling study was conducted to explore the effects of heterogeneous tissue boundaries on load-induced rotational subsidence. Using LS-DYNA software, a bone-implant model was developed to simulate the interaction of an implant placed over high and low bone density tissues. Findings indicate that the positioning of the implant over differing density regions can lead to notable rotational subsidence, especially when dealing with lower density bone. The results showcase how implant densification occurs under load, supporting previous lab findings. The presentation concludes by noting the study's limitations and potential for future research in varying materials and cadaver studies.

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