Computer-Assisted Modeling of Greater Tubercle Transposition Effect on Stress Distribution in Shoulder

Background. The aim of the work was to investigate the influence of the position of a fractured greater tubercle of the humerus on stress distribution in the glenohumeral joint (GHJ) at shoulder abduction by performing stress-strain analysis (SSA). Material and methods. A simulated 3D model of the shoulder was constructed on the basis of anatomical and anthropometric data as close as possible to real ones using the SolidWorks software package.Results. A finite-element model (FEM) was generated in a semi-automatic mode composed mostly of tetrahedral and hexagonal elements < 1 mm in dimensions.Conclusion. The simulated 3D model of the shoulder, based on anatomical and anthropometric data as close as possible to the real ones, makes possible highly accurate determination of the optimal mutual position of the movable elements of the real joint individually for each specific patient, and makes it possible to accurately perform a minimally invasive surgical operation.