Biomechanical Study on the Comparison of Synthetic Materials for Cranio-Orbital Fracture Repair

Abstract

Objective: For analyzing the mechanical properties of 2 cranio-orbital repair materials under distinct external impacts by finite element analysis and evaluating the stability of various repair materials. Methods: Based on the computed tomography images of the patients with cranio-orbital fractures, three-dimensional models of the normal craniomaxillofacial models were established by segmenting them with Mimics 19.0, Geomagic Studio 12.0, and UG 12.0, respectively, to build the finite element models of titanium repair fixation and the poly-ether-ether-ketone repair fixation. The models were then simulated by Ansys 19.2, with divergent impact forces to analyze the stresses and displacements of the repair materials, as well as the internal fixation system, and to make a comparison on the stability of the distinct repair materials. Results: The titanium mesh is stable at impact forces ≤1500 N. Furthermore, the poly-ether-ether-ketone mesh and the internal fixation system are resistant to fracture and displacement at impact forces of up to 3000 N. Conclusion: By simulating distinct mechanical environments, the biomechanical finite element analysis method can digitally assess the mechanical properties of cranio-orbital repair materials and objectively evaluate the stability of the repair materials and the internal fixation system.