Fundamentals of Orthopaedic Biomechanics: Implants, AI, and Innovation in Surgery

A special issue of Bioengineering (ISSN 2306-5354). This special issue belongs to the section "Biomedical Engineering and Biomaterials".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 April 2025) | Viewed by 5796

Special Issue Editor


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Guest Editor
1. Department of Orthopaedics Surgery, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL, USA
2. Vice Chairman, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Orthopaedic and Spine Institute, NorthShore University HealthSystem, Skokie, IL, USA
Interests: orthopaedics; biomechanics; implants; shoulder; knee; hip; hand and motion analysis

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

We are excited to announce the launch of our Special Issue titled “Fundamentals of Orthopedic Biomechanics: Implants, AI, and Innovation in Surgery”. This issue explores the interdisciplinary field where bio-engineering and orthopedics intersect, highlighting innovative solutions and recent advancements that have significantly impacted orthopedic clinical practice and patient outcomes.

This Special Issue will cover various topics, including tissue engineering, biomaterials, 3D bioprinting, the use of artificial intelligence in orthopedic surgery and rehabilitation, biomechanical studies, and the application of augmented reality to surgery pre-planning in orthopedics. Our goal is to showcase the latest research and developments in this dynamic field, providing valuable insights and knowledge to both researchers and practitioners.

We can gain valuable insights into the mechanics of various joints and their associated pathologies, ligaments, and tendon studies through detailed biomechanical analysis. This issue will also explore how these cutting-edge techniques revolutionize our understanding of orthopedic prosthesis design and patient-specific implants. One example of the application of biofilms to orthopedics is the creation of coated surfaces on implants that prevent bacterial survival.

Moreover, we will explore the application of 3D printing technology in creating customized devices and implants tailored to individual patient needs. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and motion analysis will be highlighted as essential tools in evaluating the performance and suitability of these devices in a simulated environment prior to clinical application.

Simulation studies are invaluable in understanding the behavior of implants and biological tissues under various conditions. We will discuss using cadaveric or animal tissue models and sawbone models of multiple joints to simulate pathologies and analyze the resulting changes in joint motion, stress, strain, and moment arms.

This Special Issue will also cover various subspecialties within orthopedics, including adult hip and knee reconstruction, meniscus, ACL (anterior cruciate ligament), PCL (posterior cruciate ligament) studies, and implant studies, as well as the use of artificial intelligence in orthopedic surgery and rehabilitation. By integrating bioengineering principles with orthopedic knowledge, we can develop innovative solutions and improve patient outcomes and longevity.

Through this Special Issue, we aim to highlight the symbiotic relationship between biomechanics and orthopedics and how their convergence pushes the boundaries of what is possible regarding the treatment and understanding of orthopedic conditions. We invite researchers, clinicians, and academicians to contribute their valuable insights and discoveries to this exciting and evolving field. We encourage authors to contribute original research articles, review articles, and case studies on how biomechanics has enhanced and transformed orthopedics. Join us in exploring the intersection of bio-engineering and clinical orthopedics, where innovation meets real solutions for current and future patient care.

Dr. Farid Amirouche
Guest Editor

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Keywords

  • orthopedics
  • biomechanics
  • implants
  • shoulder
  • knee
  • hip
  • hand and motion analysis
  • AI
  • augmented reality
  • ortho innovation

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Published Papers (4 papers)

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Research

14 pages, 3351 KiB  
Article
Engagement and Stress Concentration Evaluation of a Novel Two-Part Compression Screw: A Preliminary Finite Element Analysis
by Chia-Hao Hsu, Chih-Kuang Wang, Yan-Hsiung Wang, Sung-Yen Lin, Cheng-Chang Lu, Yin-Chih Fu, Hsuan-Ti Huang, Chung-Hwan Chen and Pei-Hsi Chou
Bioengineering 2025, 12(5), 483; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering12050483 - 1 May 2025
Viewed by 267
Abstract
Background/Objectives: This novel compression screw design offers potential benefits due to its two-part structure and can be used for various bone types, much like a conventional single-piece compression screw. However, full engagement may not always occur after final compression in clinical practice. This [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: This novel compression screw design offers potential benefits due to its two-part structure and can be used for various bone types, much like a conventional single-piece compression screw. However, full engagement may not always occur after final compression in clinical practice. This study aimed to verify the hypothesized optimal mechanical strength when the two parts are nearly fully combined and to determine a recommended engagement range based on stress distribution and concentration using finite element analysis. Methods: Ten models representing different combinations of the two screw parts (ranging from 10% to 100% of the engagement length, at 10% intervals) were simulated to determine the acceptable engagement percentage. Pull-out and bending load simulations were performed using finite element models. Extreme clinical loading conditions were simulated, including 1000 N pull-out forces and a 1 Nm bending moment at the screw head. Results: Finite element analysis revealed two stress concentration points. The pull-out load simulation showed that combinations with 100% engagement merged the two stress concentrations into one without force superposition, while combinations with less than 30% engagement should be avoided. In the bending load simulation, higher stress was observed for combinations with less than 90% engagement. A lower level of engagement increases the bending moment, which might be the major factor affecting the von Mises stress. Conclusions: Surgeons should be instructed on how to use the screw correctly and select the most appropriate screw size or length for the two parts to achieve an effective combination. Excessive bending or pull-out forces, or improper use with poor combinations, may cause the middle interval to strip or the screw to break or pull out. An engagement of more than 90% is recommended, while less than 30% is considered dangerous. This study provides biomechanical insights into this novel two-part screw design and its important clinical implications. Full article
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18 pages, 7246 KiB  
Article
Comparative Study of Alternative Methods for Measuring Leg Length Discrepancy after Robot-Assisted Total Hip Arthroplasty
by Hamad Nazmy, Giovanni Solitro, Benjamin Domb and Farid Amirouche
Bioengineering 2024, 11(8), 853; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11080853 - 21 Aug 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1764
Abstract
Background: Our study addresses the lack of consensus on measuring leg length discrepancy (LLD) after total hip arthroplasty (THA). We will assess the inter-observer variability and correlation between the five most commonly used LLD methods and investigate the use of trigonometric principles in [...] Read more.
Background: Our study addresses the lack of consensus on measuring leg length discrepancy (LLD) after total hip arthroplasty (THA). We will assess the inter-observer variability and correlation between the five most commonly used LLD methods and investigate the use of trigonometric principles in overcoming the limitations of current techniques. Methods: LLD was measured on postoperative AP pelvic radiographs using five conventional methods. CT images created a 3D computer model of the pelvis and femur. The resulting models were projected onto a 2D, used to measure LLD by the five methods. The measurements were evaluated via Taguchi analysis, a statistical method identifying the process’s most influential factors. The approach was used to assess the new trigonometric method. Results: Conventional methods demonstrated poor correlation. Methods referenced to the centers of the femoral heads were insensitive to LLD originating outside the acetabular cup. Methods referencing either the inter-ischial line or the inter-obturator foramina to the lesser trochanter were sensitive to acetabular and femoral components. Trigonometry-based measurements showed a higher correlation. Conclusions: Our results underscore clinicians’ need to specify the methods used to assess LLD. Applying trigonometric principles was shown to be accurate and reliable, but it was contingent on proper radiographic alignment. Full article
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16 pages, 5039 KiB  
Article
The Effect of the TiO2 Anodization Layer in Pedicle Screw Conductivity: An Analytical, Numerical, and Experimental Approach
by Pedro Fonseca, Márcio Fagundes Goethel, João Paulo Vilas-Boas, Manuel Gutierres and Miguel Velhote Correia
Bioengineering 2024, 11(7), 634; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11070634 - 21 Jun 2024
Viewed by 882
Abstract
The electrical stimulation of pedicle screws is a technique used to ensure its correct placement within the vertebrae pedicle. Several authors have studied these screws’ electrical properties with the objective of understanding if they are a potential source of false negatives. As titanium [...] Read more.
The electrical stimulation of pedicle screws is a technique used to ensure its correct placement within the vertebrae pedicle. Several authors have studied these screws’ electrical properties with the objective of understanding if they are a potential source of false negatives. As titanium screws are anodized with different thicknesses of a high electrical resistance oxide (TiO2), this study investigated, using analytical, numerical, and experimental methods, how its thickness may affect pedicle screw’s resistance and conductivity. Analytical results have demonstrated that the thickness of the TiO2 layer does result in a significant radial resistance increase (44.21 mΩ/nm, for Ø 4.5 mm), and a decrease of conductivity with layers thicker than 150 nm. The numerical approach denotes that the geometry of the screw further results in a decrease in the pedicle screw conductivity, especially after 125 nm. Additionally, the experimental results demonstrate that there is indeed an effective decrease in conductivity with an increase in the TiO2 layer thickness, which is also reflected in the screw’s total resistance. While the magnitude of the resistance associated with each TiO2 layer thickness may not be enough to compromise the ability to use anodized pedicle screws with a high-voltage electrical stimulator, pedicle screws should be the subject of more frequent electrical characterisation studies. Full article
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12 pages, 2069 KiB  
Article
Surface Modification of Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) Intervertebral Fusion Implant Using Polydopamine Coating for Improved Bioactivity
by Suzy Park and Tae-Gon Jung
Bioengineering 2024, 11(4), 343; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11040343 - 31 Mar 2024
Viewed by 2033
Abstract
The occurrence of bone diseases has been increasing rapidly, in line with the aging population. A representative spinal fusion material, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), is advantageous in this regard as it can work in close proximity to the elastic modulus of cancellous bone. However, if [...] Read more.
The occurrence of bone diseases has been increasing rapidly, in line with the aging population. A representative spinal fusion material, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), is advantageous in this regard as it can work in close proximity to the elastic modulus of cancellous bone. However, if it is used without surface modification, the initial osseointegration will be low due to lack of bioactivity, resulting in limitations in surgical treatment. In this study, we aimed to modify the surface of PEEK cages to a hydrophilic surface by coating with polyethylene glycol (PEG), hyaluronic acid (HA), and polydopamine (PDA), and to analyze whether the coated surface exhibits improved bioactivity and changes in mechanical properties for orthopedic applications. Material properties of coated samples were characterized and compared with various PEEK groups, including PEEK, PEEK-PEG, PEEK-HA, and PEEK-PDA. In an in vitro study, cell proliferation was found to be enhanced on PDA-coated PEEK; it was approximately twice as high compared to the control group. In addition, mechanical properties, including static and torsion, were not affected by the presence of the coating. Thus, the results suggest that PEEK-PDA may have the potential for clinical application in fusion surgery for spinal diseases, as it may improve the rate of osseointegration. Full article
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