A finite element model of the shoulder: application to the changes of biomechanical environment induced by postoperative malrotation of humeral shaft fracture

Objectives The humerus fracture is one of the most commonly occurring fractures. In this research, we attempted to evaluate and compare the extent of malrotation and biomechanical environment after surgical treatment of humeral shaft fractures. Methods A finite element (FE) model of the shoulder was built based on Computed Tomography (CT) data of a patient with a humeral shaft fracture. The muscle group around the shoulder joint was simulated by spring elements. The changes of shoulder stresses under rotation were analyzed. The biomechanics of the normal shoulder and postoperative malrotation of the humeral shaft was analyzed and compared. Results During rotations, the maximum stress was centered in the posterosuperior part of the glenoid for the normal shoulder. The von Mises shear stresses were 4.40 MPa and 4.89 MPa at 40° of internal and external rotations, respectively. For internal rotation deformity, the shear contact forces were 7–9 times higher for the shoulder internally rotated 40° than for the normal one. For external rotation deformity, the shear contact forces were about 3–5 times higher for the shoulder with 40° external rotation than the normal one. Conclusion Postoperative malrotation of humeral shaft fracture induced the changes of the biomechanical environment of the shoulders. The peak degree of malrotation was correlated with increased stresses of shoulders, which could be paid attention to in humeral shaft fracture treatment. We hoped to provide information about the biomechanical environment of humeral malrotation.