Biomechanical comparison of using traditional and 3D-printed titanium alloy anatomical assembly thin anterior plating under three patellar fracture conditions

Abstract

This study attempted to understand the biomechanics of using 3D-printed anatomical assembly thin bone plate (AATBP) and anterior star-shaped plating (ASP) under different patellar fractures. The transverse (C1), transverse plus second fragment (C2) and complex (C3) patella fractures were defined for performing the dynamic cyclic load test and finite element (FE) analysis. The AATBP was fixed onto the patella after adjusting the total fixation height using a ratchet mechanism and providing holding power hooks. The ASP contoured the plate/distal legs based on the patella surface curvature and generated an additional drill guide to avoid screw interference. The average ASP fixation fracture gaps were significantly larger than the AATBP fixation. FE analysis showed that the AATBP biomechanical performance was better than the ASP fixation for different patella fractures. The 3D-printed AATBP can be used effectively for different patella fractures without screw interference and demonstrated greater stability for comminuted patellar fractures.

Keywords

• Patella fracture
• 3D printing
• biomechanics
• anterior plating
• dynamic test