Biomechanical Analysis of Clavicle Hook Plates with a Range of Posterior Hook Offsets Implanted at Different Acromion Positions in the Acromioclavicular Joint: A Finite Element Analysis Study

Abstract

The clavicle hook plate is commonly used in acromioclavicular injuries; however, the biomechanical effect of the posterior hook offset and hook position is unclear. This study applied a finite element analysis (FEA) to evaluate these parameters to improve the clinical strategy. Nine FEA models with 0-mm, 5-mm, and 10-mm posterior hook offsets implanted in the anterior, middle, and posterior acromion were established to evaluate the stress distribution and the reaction force on the acromion. The 5-mm and 10-mm posterior hook offsets at all acromion positions reduced the reaction force on the acromion but slightly increased the stress on the clavicle. The 0-mm offset increased the reaction force at all acromion positions and was relatively lower at the middle acromion. The clavicle hook plate with a posterior hook offset reduces the reaction force on the acromion, providing a flexibility of the hook position. These results provide surgeons with the biomechanical basis for the hook offset and position and engineers with the mechanical basis for the implant design.