Can the Finite Element Method Be Applied to Patient-Specific Implant Evaluation?

Abstract

Background: The introduction of 3-dimensional printing has revolutionized orthopedic surgery, enabling patient-customized implants to address complex bone defects. However, ensuring reliable fixation remains a considerable challenge. Herein, we developed a finite element analysis (FEA)-based flow designed to evaluate implant fixation across various anatomical sites. Methods: We applied this flow to the pelvic region to validate its fixation strategies and optimize the design across different osteointegration stages: acute, pre-, and post-osteointegration. Effects of screw-fixation methods (short screws in the cancellous bone and long screws in the cortical bone) on patient outcomes were analyzed and validated using data from 2 patients. Results: Predictive outcomes aligned closely with clinical results in terms of the location and timing of screw-fixation failure. Conclusions: The study findings affirm the potential of FEA to verify implant design and fixation strategies and to enhance surgical success rates through improved preoperative planning.