Load distribution on the radio-carpal joint for carpal arthrodesis. Issue 127 (April 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Márquez-Florez, Kalenia; Vergara-Amador, Enrique; Gavilán-Alfonso, Maria; Garzón-Alvarado, Diego
• Is Part Of: Computer methods and programs in biomedicine. Issue 127(2016)
• Page Start: 204
• Page End: 215
• Publication Date: 2016-04
• Subjects: Wrist analysis -- Computational model -- Arthrodesis -- Hand loads; Medicine -- Computer programs -- Periodicals; Biology -- Computer programs -- Periodicals; Computers -- Periodicals; Medicine -- Periodicals; Médecine -- Logiciels -- Périodiques; Biologie -- Logiciels -- Périodiques; Biology -- Computer programs; Medicine -- Computer programs; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 610.28
• DOI: 10.1016/j.cmpb.2015.12.023
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0169-2607

Abstract

Highlights: We analyze the load distribution through the wrist joint with several arthrodesis treatments. We used the rigid body spring model method on a 3D model of the wrist joint. We found the load distributions on each carpal articular surface of radius for each treatment. Obtained results allowed comparing the different treatments and their efficacy under static conditions. Abstract: Background and objective: Carpal fusions are useful for treating specific carpal disorders, maximizing postoperative wrist motion, hand strength, reducing pain and instability of the joint. The surgeon selects the appropriate treatment by considering the degree of stability, the chronicity of the injury, functional demands of the patient and former patient's outcomes as well. However there are not many studies regarding the load distribution provided by the treatment. So, the purpose of this study is to analyze the load distribution through the wrist joint with an arthrodesis treatment and compare the results with a normal wrist. Method: To this end the rigid body spring model (RBSM) method was used on a three-dimensional model of the wrist joint. The cartilage and ligaments were simulated as springs acting under compression and tension, respectively, while the bones were considered as rigid bodies. To simulate the arthrodesis, the fused bones were considered as a single rigid body. Results: The changes on the load distribution for each arthrodesis agree with the treatment objective, reducing load transmission through a specific articular surface. For example, for SLAC/SNAC II most of the treatments reduced the load transmitted through the radioscaphoid fossae, almost by 8%. However, the capitolunate (CL) arthrodesis was the treatment that managed to keep the load transmitted through the radiolunate joint closer to normal conditions. Also, in treatments where the scaphoid was excised (3-corner, 4-corner and capitolunate arthrodesis), the joint surface between the lunate surface compensates by doubling the transmitted force to the radius. Conclusions: The common arthrodesis for treating SLAC/SNAC II-III, reduces, in fact, the load on the radioscaphoid joint. Alternative treatments that reduce load distribution on the radiocarpal joint should be three corner and capitolunate arthrodesis for treating SLAC/SNAC-II; and for SLAC/SNAC-III four corners with scaphoid excision. On Kienbock's disease. Scaphocapitate (SC) arthrodesis is more effective on reducing the load transmission through the radiolunate and ulnolunate joints. All arthrodesis treatment should consider changes on the load transmission, and also bones' fusion rates and pain reduction on patient's outcomes.