Contact mechanics and wear simulations of hip resurfacing devices using computational methods.

Abstract

The development of computational and numerical methods provides the option to study the contact mechanics and wear of hip resurfacing devices. The importance of these techniques is justified by the extensive amount of testing and experimental work required to verify and improve current orthopaedic implant devices. As the demands for device longevity is increasing, it is as important as ever to study techniques for providing much needed orthopaedic hip implant solutions. Through the use of advanced computer aided design and the finite element method, contact analysis of hip resurfacing devices was carried out by developing both three-dimensional and two-dimensional axisymmetric models whilst considering the effects of loading conditions and material properties on the contact stresses. Following on from this, the three-dimensional model was used in combination with a unique programme to develop wear simulations and obtain cumulative wear for both the acetabular cup and femoral head simultaneously.