Finite element analysis of EBM manufactured bespoke implants: A probabilistic study

Abstract

This study analyses three additively manufactured canine implants designed for angular limb deformity correction procedure through probabilistic numerical analysis. These implants have produced excellent results in-vivo and are operational to-date. Therefore, this study uses finite element analysis in conjunction with statistical analysis in order to further validate these implants from a numerical perspective. Due to uncertainties associated with boundary conditions for a bespoke implant geometry, the analyses in this study were conducted on a range of input values. An interrogation of these parameters through sensitivity analysis enabled in identifying the vital inputs. These inputs were then employed to conduct robustness analysis in order to determine the mean value of stress on which these implants ideally operate. These mean values were then compared with the associated safety and failure limit to obtain the probability of reaching these limits through different reliability techniques. A low probability of failure computed from numerical analysis in combination with the continued performance of these implants, suggests a successful integration of the methodology in the design phase of bespoke implants.