Computational model validation of contact mechanics in total ankle arthroplasty.

Revision rates in total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) are nearly double compared to hip or knee arthroplasty procedures. Contact mechanics for metal-polyethylene articulation in TAA is critical due to the reduced size of the implant and higher expected load, compared to a hip or knee joint. This study was focused on developing a validated computational model to predict contact area in a polyethylene tibial bearing articulating with a metallic talar component in a bicondylar TAA design. Contact area was evaluated at five different flexion angles in an experimental test and in a computational model, per ASTM F2665. The overall contact area values predicted in the computational model matched closely (within 8%) with that measured in the comparator; well within the range reported in the literature. The credibility of the model to sufficiently predict the outputs relative to the experimental data was discussed using the guidelines provided by the recently published ASME V&V40-2018 standard. Various sensitivities associated with both the model and the comparator, were explored. It was concluded that the validated modeling approach presented in this study demonstrated sufficient accuracy to support the use of modeling for evaluation of contact area of TAA designs. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.