Comparison of Stresses in Four Modular Total Knee Arthroplasty Prosthesis Designs
The current study, compares the mechanical performance of four modular TKA prostheses based on von Mises stress distribution in the tibial insert. Three-dimensional finite element (FE) models of a cruciate retaining type modular prosthesis and three posterior stabilized (PS) type modular prostheses namely: anterior slide, modular post and double cam, were developed. A compressive load of 2600 N was applied to the FE models at flexion angles of 00, 150, 300, 600 and 900. Von Mises stress was evaluated on all the modular parts of the prostheses and compared with the yield strength of the corresponding material. Von Mises stress in all the parts were below the yield strength of their corresponding material except for tibial insert of anterior slide design at high flexion angle. Von Mises stress above the yield strength in the tibial insert of anterior slide design, was due to edge loading in the post and it demonstrates the likelihood of mechanical failure by delamination type of wear.