Three-dimensional finite element simulation and biomechanical analysis of maxillofacial blast injuries and secondary injuries to the skull base

Abstract

Objective To construct a three-dimensional finite element model of human maxillofacial structures to dynamically simulate blast injuries in different maxillofacial regions and analyze the biomechanical characteristics of skull base injuries caused by maxillofacial blast injuries. Methods The head CT data were acquired from a normal male adult and a three-dimensional finite element model of the maxillofacial bones was constructed using finite element modeling software. Using the same parameters of blast yield and distance, we dynamically simulated blast injuries in different maxillofacial regions on this model and analyzed the biomechanical data at 15 selected landmarks in the skull base. Results We successfully simulated the dynamic process of maxillofacial fractures and stress distribution and conduction in the skull base using the constructed model. In the events of an explosion at precisely 5 cm from the front of the nasal bone tip and one at 5 cm from the front of the edge of the right orbit, the stress values of Von Mises at the medial foramen ovale, hypophyseal fossa, clivus and posterior wall of the foramen magnum were greater than those at the other landmarks; when the explosion occurred at 5 cm from the front of the right zygomatic arch, the right greater wing of the sphenoid bone, right medial foramen ovale, hypophyseal fossa, clivus and posterior wall of the foramen magnum sustained greater stress values of Von Mises. Conclusion Finite element modeling is capable of simulating the process of maxillofacial blast injuries. Blast wave impact in different maxillofacial regions results in stress concentration in different areas in relation not only to the structure of skull base but also to the stress conduction pathway.

Keywords

• blast injury
• maxillofacial
• finite element method
• skull base injuries
• biomechanics