A three-dimensional, nonlinear, transient, dynamic, finite element analysis of the embalmed human tibia subjected to high speed impact loading

A relatively new topic in the biomedical field is the area of impact biomechanics, which involves the study of trauma to the human body due to impact conditions. The research in this area is primarily experimental, and little finite element analysis has been performed. The research presented in this thesis deals with the impact biomechanics area; the purpose of this thesis is to apply the finite element method to accurately model a 24.5 ft./sec. impact at the tibial midshaft in the anterior to posterior direction. It is through the finite element modeling that a better understanding of impact trauma to the human lower leg can be attained. A three-dimensional, nonlinear, transient, dynamic, solid mechanics, finite element code—PRONTO 3D— is used to analyze the impact condition. The model will investigate fracture propagation and the incurred fracture force in the tibia. . In an attempt to verify the finite element analysis, experimental testing matching the computational model conditions was performed on eleven dry, embalmed, human tibias. Fracture force data and fracture propagation trends were investigated in these tests. Results show that the finite element model agrees with the general trends shown experimental 1 y for both fracture force and fracture propagation in the tibia. However, comparison between the experimental and computational models were not entirely possible, and only general trends could be noticed. With the development of an accurate constitutive model of the tibia and better experimental verification, the finite element method can prove to be a valuable tool in injury prediction and the design of injury mitigating devices.