Three-dimensional finite element simulation of mandible gunshot wound in swine

Abstract

Objective To establish a three-dimensional (3D) finite element model of a swine mandible, simulate the dynamic procedure of bullet damaging the swine mandible and explore a finite ele-ment analysis method on maxiilofacial gunshot wound. Methods The digital imaging and communica-tions in medicine (DICOM) data obtained from CT scanning of a swine mandible were remerged into a 3D finite element model of the original specimen through Mimics and ANSA software, then a simulation of 3D finite element model penetrated by a 7.62 mm bullet was carried out through LS-DYNA software. The simulation data were compared with those from animal experiment in laboratory to test the feasibility of 3D finite element model and the simulation method. Results A 3D finite element model of a swine mandi-ble was established, with highly identical geometric size with the specimen. In the meantime, the dynam-ic process of a 7.62 mm bullet damage to the model was successfully simulated. Data from the simulation and those from animal experiment showed a high level of consistency. Conclusion 3D finite element method is prosperous in application in basic research on maxillofacial gunshot wound. Key words: Mandible; Wounds, gunshot; Finite element analysis, three dimensional; Bioballistics