Thirty-two component finite element models of a horse and donkey digit.
Abstract: The finite element (FE) method is the most powerful modelling technique available to explicate the biomechanics of the digit. It has already proved to be of high value in human podiatry. However, accurate models of the complex anatomy of the horse and donkey digit are currently lacking. Objective: To develop FE models of the horse and donkey digit from computed tomography data, including all functionally relevant anatomy, and to perform simulations to replicate prestrain in the flexor tendons and quasistatic weightbearing. Methods: Computed tomography data of the front right digits were obtained under general anaesthesia. The anatomy was rationalised into 32 functional components. The FE models were generated using a forward engineering technique. Linear or nonlinear material properties were applied according to published data. Prestraining of the flexor tendons was achieved by z-direction displacement, and loading by the application of 1 x body mass. Results: The resultant FE models comprised over 10(6) elements. Z-direction displacement of the digital flexor tendons to compensate for general anaesthesia relaxation gave von Mises stress levels up to 134 MPa for the deep and 0.56 MPa for the superficial in the horse and 0.78 MPa and 0.27 MPa in the donkey, respectively. Weightbearing resulted in capsular deformation patterns consistent with in vivo observations, and maximum stress levels of 1.46 MPa for the horse and 0.89 MPa for the donkey. Conclusions: These high resolution FE models could give new insight into the biomechanics of the equid digit and provide new data regarding stress and strain levels within the tissues of the digit that are unobtainable by other means. Conclusions: Application of the FE modelling technique could enable investigation of the biomechanics of orthopaedic problems and may provide a mechanistic basis for enhanced preventative and remedial management and treatment.
Publication Date: 2009-05-28 PubMed ID: 19469224DOI: 10.2746/042516409x395688Google Scholar: Lookup
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- Journal Article
- Research Support
- Non-U.S. Gov't
Summary
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The research article presents the development and application of high-resolution finite element (FE) models to understand the biomechanics of a horse and donkey’s digit. This method could allow the investigation of orthopaedic problems and improve preventative and remedial management/treatment approaches.
Understanding Finite Element Models
- Finite Element (FE) models are a powerful tool used for various simulations and analyses. The method parses a whole object into smaller, finite parts (elements), which are easier to study.
- The article mentions that FE techniques have proven their worth in human podiatry (the study of feet). The authors aim to make the same contribution to veterinary science, particularly for horses and donkeys.
Development of FE Models
- The researchers used computed tomography data from the front right digits of a horse and donkey to construct the FE models. They segmented the data into 32 separate, functionally relevant components to give the models accuracy and precision.
- These anatomical models were then processed through a technique called forward engineering, where systems are built starting from base elements and moving towards the complete system.
- The researchers applied linear or non-linear material properties to the models, derived from data available in published literature. This practice gives the model a realistic representation of the anatomical structure’s properties.
Simulation and Results
- The FE models were prestrained and loaded to replicate the actual conditions as closely as possible. Prestraining was achieved by displacing the flexor tendons in the z-direction to account for relaxation during general anesthesia. Loading was done by applying a mass equivalent to the bodies of the animals.
- The results indicated that the stresses were consistent with in vivo (within the living organism) observations, giving validity to the simulations.
- The stress levels varied with the species and specific components of the biomechanical structure, giving a valuable insight into the functioning of the digit.
- The authors identify that these FE models can be used to investigate orthopaedic challenges facing equine health, providing a scientifically sound approach for developing and implementing treatment protocols.
Conclusions
- In conclusion, the development of these high-resolution FE models can help in understanding the biomechanics of the horse and donkey digit. More broadly, their application could give new insights into the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of orthopaedic problems in these species.
Cite This Article
APA
Collins SN, Murray RC, Kneissl S, Stanek C, Hinterhofer C.
(2009).
Thirty-two component finite element models of a horse and donkey digit.
Equine Vet J, 41(3), 219-224.
https://doi.org/10.2746/042516409x395688 Publication
Researcher Affiliations
- Orthopaedic Research Group, Centre for Equine Studies, Animal Health Trust, Lanwades Park, Kentford, Newmarket, Suffolk CB8 7UU, UK.
MeSH Terms
- Animals
- Computer Graphics
- Equidae / anatomy & histology
- Forelimb / anatomy & histology
- Models, Biological
Citations
This article has been cited 2 times.- Panagiotopoulou O, Rankin JW, Gatesy SM, Hutchinson JR. A preliminary case study of the effect of shoe-wearing on the biomechanics of a horse's foot. PeerJ 2016;4:e2164.
- McCarty CA, Thomason JJ, Gordon KD, Burkhart TA, Milner JS, Holdsworth DW. Finite-Element Analysis of Bone Stresses on Primary Impact in a Large-Animal Model: The Distal End of the Equine Third Metacarpal. PLoS One 2016;11(7):e0159541.
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