Start: Research Programs and Initiatives

Research Programs and Initiatives

Prosthetics, Biomechanics and Biomaterials

Head: DDr. Peter Schuller-Götzburg

The aim of the research program

  • To introduce and establish research methods concerning prosthetics and biomaterials through finite element (FE) analysis and histomorphological investigations at the Paracelsus Medical University. 
  • To develop and improve prostheses and implants. To evaluate the interaction and biomechanics of implants with the surrounding hard tissues by means of FE models
  • To verify the FE results through histomorphological analysis of hard non-decalcified tissue sections with in situ metal implants.

Project description

Individual articulated 3-D models of the human body with existing or newly developed implants or protheses are created. These models are made of triangulated 3-D finite element (FE) models based on CT/ MRI data. The models enable the calculation and analysis of the stress on hard tissue (bone) as well as on implants or prostheses under real physiological conditions.

The virtual 3D-FE surface models are created using the software program Mimics (Materialise, Belgium). Mimics is used because it takes into account each important step in the creation of 3-D models based on CT and MRI images.

The models are used to assess the structural and mechanical properties in relation to the individual’s anatomy, graft incorporation and the stress on bone tissue. For the FE analysis, the models are exported to, calculated and analyzed in the FE program ANSYS (ANSYS Inc., USA).

  

Methodology

Finite Element Method [FEM]

The Finite Element Method makes it possible for complex parts and structures to be produced and analyzed in extreme situations without the use of prototypes. A virtual model of the prosthesis or implant, plus the surrounding hard tissue and muscle, is produced. The mechnical stress that such a prosthesis or implant is exposed to is then simulated by the computer. Information on the mechanical stress exerted on the material and resulting deformations is obtained. The technician is thus able to identify physical correlations and maximum stress limits in the early stages of development. The FEM model is designed to simulate the integration of the prosthesis or implant over a period of time, starting with the initial healing phase to the mechanical stress that is subsequently exerted on it. Improvements can be made in the research laboratory without having to produce prototypes and undergo prolonged testing.



The aim is to create a patient-specific virtual model using CT-data. Based on this virtual model, a suitable prosthesis of optimum shape and material is developed. The data of this specific model is then used to produce the prosthesis or implant via the cad/cam process.

Using the Mimics program (Materialise, Belgium), the patient’s CT data is used to produce segmented 3-D models as well as an FE-grid model. The FE-models enable a virtual placement of the implants. The FE analysis program is then used to examine mechanical stress-related changes in the implant and bone.

Histomorphological investigation of hard tissue sections

The healing behavior of implants is evaluated and verified in FEM studies, using non-decalficied hard tissue sections with in situ metal implants. Microradiographic and light-microscopic research can then be carried out. Similarly, a histomorphometric assessment can also be done.

HAS-shoulder prosthesis project

Patient-specific FE-models of the shoulder are created in which the socket of a HAS-shoulder prosthesis (Howmedica Osteonics, Ireland) is inserted at different angles (65°-45°) to the ventral surface of the scapula. The difference in stress distribution and shear stress of the HAS-shoulder prosthesis is calculated and analyzed at various angles from 65° to 45° at the interfaces of  the prosthesis/ cement, cement/ scapula including the stress distribution in the shoulder blade. The objective is to find the ideal insertion angle of the HAS-Glenoid-socket.

In collaboration with Prim. Rector Univ.-Prof. Dr. Herbert Resch, University Clinic of Trauma Surgery, Paracelsus Medical University.

Mechanical testing at the Universitty of Applied Sciences, Salzburg

    

 

Material press

This press is used to create, bind or deform new or existing material in different ways. Time controlled pressure and temperature can be applied by the press. Chemical and physical processes involved in material production and material deformation can therefore be selectively controlled.


Strength / dynamic force test

Using the strength testing device, it is possible to investigate strength properties of the materials and composites (mainly the following properties: yield, impact, tensile strength, shear strength, deformation etc.). With this universal dynamic force device, it is possible to accurately investigate all kinds of artificial materials, from biogenic materials to metals and ceramics which are tested under the exertion of a force of up to 250kN.

Hardness testing

Surface hardness and the essential surface properties of materials and composites can be investigated.

Laboratory

The properties of biogenic materials are particularly vulnerable to environmental conditions. This makes it necessary to prepare and treat material in climate cabinets and use specific measurement apparatus.


Cooperations

Fachhochschule Salzburg GmbH  - University of Applied Sciences: Univ.-Doz. Dr. Karl Entacher (Degree ITS) and Dr. Alexander Petutschnig (research conducted in Kuchl, Austria).

Histomorphometric Laboratory for Biomaterials and Research of Fibre-Reinforced Plastics,
Mag. Stefan Tangle

"BERNHARD-GOTTLIEB-UNIVERSITÄTSZAHNKLINIK"
University Clinic of Dentistry, Oral Surgery and Maxillofacial Surgery.
Department of Oral Surgery, Head: O. Univ.-Prof. DDr. Georg Watzek
Währinger Straße 25a, A-1090 Vienna

Publications

Contact
Tätigkeit
Forschungsprogramm für Prothetik-, Biomechanik- und Biomaterialforschung
Telefon
+43 676 / 533 98 32
eMail
Peter Schuller-Götzburg
Peter Schuller-Götzburg