In-silico modelling of multi-strike insertion and torsional resistance of tapered revision hip stems: Insight into spline design philosophy.

Abstract

Despite the clinical success of tapered splined titanium stems, a knowledge gap still exists between spline design and its primary mechanical stability, which is critical to the long-term success of revision hip arthroplasty. Additionally, almost all published pre-clinical studies relied on resource-intensive benchtop and cadaveric testing. Hence, the present study developed a novel computational model to investigate effects of spline geometry and configuration on axial and torsional stability of tapered stem. Dynamic explicit Finite Element Analysis coupled with a state-of-the-art adaptive meshing technique was used to simulate the highly non-linear contacts and large bony material deformations. Hybridising primary straight splines with secondary angled splines results in 41% and 10% increases of peak insertion force and post-seating moment than the predicate device for the same seating position. The primary straight splines cut at multiple circumferential bony locations, enhancing torsional stability; while the alternatively placed secondary angled splines form wedges with the bone, providing reliable seating and additional torsional resistance. To the best knowledge of the author, this is the first in-silico investigation of its kind to simulate multi-strike seating and torsional resistance of revision hip stems, offering an effective and efficient platform for future multi-factorial parametric study and uncertainty quantification.