Finite element modelling of the healthy wrist joint

Abstract

The finite element method was used to perform contact analysis in the wrist joint, thus requires its model construction preceding any analyses. The steps and procedures are as explained in this chapter. The three-dimensional model of the healthy wrist was constructed from the CT images of a healthy volunteer. Segmentations were performed on CT images selecting the regions of the cortical and the cancellous bone. The completed three-dimensional model was then constructed consisting of solid linear first order tetrahedral elements. As no soft tissues appeared in CT images, manual constructions of it were performed. The articular cartilages were modelled by extruding the articulating surfaces with a thickness size half of the minimum distance between the two bones. Set of links were used to simulate the ligamentous structure. The model was then compared with anatomical software for precision, assuring its reliability for future consumption.