Establishment and validation of a high-fidelity finite element model of the wrist joint

Xiong Wantao; Liu Guangwei; Wang Yuding; Su Xingyu; Cui Guopeng; Li Yongyao

doi:10.12307/2026.189

Abstract：BACKGROUND:Current finite element models of the wrist joint predominantly focus on osseous and ligamentous structures,with insufficient incorporation of musculotendinous components,thereby limiting their fidelity and accuracy. OBJECTIVE:To establish a high-fidelity finite element model of the wrist joint,providing a reference for in-depth biomechanical investigations. METHODS:Upper limb CT and MRI data from a 33-year-old healthy male volunteer were imported into Mimics 20.0.Threshold-based selection,region growing,and image segmentation techniques were employed to reconstruct wrist-related bones and soft tissues(including muscles).The model underwent surface optimization,patch generation,and meshing in SolidWorks 2020 and HyperMesh 14.0.Material property assignment and ligament-cartilage contact interfaces were implemented in ABAQUS 6.13 to construct a three-dimensional finite element model of the wrist joint.Stress distribution across wrist structures under axial compression was analyzed. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:(1)A three-dimensional finite element model encompassing the ulna,radius,distal humerus,carpal bones,metacarpals,pronator teres,pronator quadratus,supinator,lateral muscle group,volar muscle group,dorsal muscle group,interosseous membrane,major ligaments,and cartilage structures was successfully established,comprising 759 191 elements and 245 510 nodes.The stress distribution pattern at the radiocarpal joint under axial compressive loading on the metacarpals was computationally analyzed and compared with cadaveric studies reported in literature,thereby validating the authenticity and effectiveness of the current model.(2)This investigation employed CT and MRI data to simulate and reconstruct comprehensive wrist joint osseous and soft tissue structures through computational methodologies.The model precisely delineates starting point and ending point of the muscle and characterizes contact interactions between forearm musculature and skeletal elements during muscle pathway simulations,ultimately resulting in a more realistic finite element model of the wrist joint.