The Effect of Contact Model on Stress Distribution on Internal Fixation of Fibula Fracture

Abstract

The fibula is a bone with a small cross-sectional area that is located in the calf parallel to the tibia bone and includes part of the lower leg. Technically, this bone only receives a load of approximately 15% of the total load received by the lower leg. However, under certain conditions, the fibula can be broken and require medical attention to repair it. The most common medical solution to improve this condition is to install an internal fixation. The main function of internal fixation is to keep fractured bones stabilized and in alignment. When the internal fixation is in place, the internal fixation will receive tension, at least by the patient’s body weight while supporting the legs. The magnitude of the received stress value will certainly influence the strength of the material from the internal fixation. Experimental studies are very difficult to carry out. Therefore, in this study a numerical analysis of the stress distribution on the internal fixation of the fibula bone was carried out, using the finite element method. The influence of the contact model between the bones used, namely friction and bonding, on the results of the finite element analysis was studied before further research could be carried out. The load given is considered equivalent to the average body weight of the Indonesian population, which is around 63 kg. The material employed is AISI 316. Parameters for friction and bonded models used refer to previous researchers. The results of the analysis show significant differences in the distribution and magnitude of stress on the fixation plate due to the use of different contact models.