STRUCTURAL RESPONSES OF A NOVEL HIGH FLEXION KNEE (SS316–UHMWPE) USED IN TOTAL KNEE ARTHROPLASTY USING FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS

Abstract

The application of finite element modeling in medical applications has been evolving as the field of high importance especially in the development of medical. The generic artificial knee implants used in the total knee arthroplasty have the restriction in its range of motion with around 90 degrees. A new design allowing flexion extension range of over 120 degrees has been designed with a view to facilitate partial squatting and the same is used for the analysis purpose. The loading conditions of 10 times the body weight are considered. Finite element analyses of this design have been carried out based on standard biomaterial used in orthopaedic implants. In this paper we discuss the results of analyses of an artificial knee with stainless steel alloy. The results of the analyses were used in identifying areas of extreme stresses within the design and the spot prone for higher deformation. Based on these results slight modification on the designs was carried out. The results are also verified whether the body is within the linear deformation levels. As the results obtained were very satisfactory the models have been recommended for prototyping. It is verified from the results that the new models respond positive till a load of 300 kg and then they enter into the maximum yield stress levels. However, in reality, the loading on an artificial knee is less than 300 kg. So the results are inferred positive and the models were sent for prototyping.