Development of a computational model for the mechanical and functional evaluation of the trapeziometacarpal joint

Abstract

A  computational  model  for  the  thumb  was  developed  in  order  to  evaluate  the  stresses  and  strains  in  the Trapeziometacarpal joint under physiological conditions. A reconstruction of the 3D geometry of the thumb was performed through image processing of computerized axial tomographies. Based on anatomical and functional analysis of the thumb, a computational model was generated to simulate the behavior of the joint under normal working conditions. The tendon forces and the distribution of stresses in the joint were obtained by means of mechanics analysis using the finite element method; these analyses were performed for regular usage conditions and specific anatomical grip positions.