Application of finite element method in simulation of mini-invasive surgery for correcting pectus carinatum

Objective To explore the application of finite element method in biomechanical analysis of rib cage and simulation of mini-invasive surgery for correcting pectus carinatum. Methods Based on a rib cage model and a pectus bar model established by finite element methods, rib cage and pectus bar model was assembled by ABAQUS software.The position of pectus bar was parallel to xx axis and the highest position of sternum was set as the base position (set as base point) and set another 3 position of + 20 mm, + 10 mm and -10 mm in zz axis direction respectively.After setting a similar size of concentrated force on pectus bar in yy axis, ABAQUS software was utilized for calculating stress distribution and sternal displacement under static load and then analyzing the difference of stress distribution and sternal displacement among 4 different models. Results Simulation of mini-invasive surgery for correcting pectus carinatum showed that the force applied to front chest caused different sternal displacements and the max displacement at + 20 mm site was 11.20 mm, 14.85 mm at + 10 mm site, 24.65 mm at base point site and 17.59 mm at -10 mm site.The force could be transmitted to the back of rib cage by costal cartilage and the max stress at + 20 mm was 85.56 MPa, 105.82 MPa at + 10 mm site, 84.93 MPa at base point site and 86.69 MPa at -10 mm site.In this study, stress distribution was symmetrical bilaterally and bar location on the bottom of sternum resulted in the lowest stress distribution and maximal sternal displacement. Conclusions Simulation for mini-invasive surgery for correcting pectus carinatum may aid in optimizing preoperative plans and improving surgical outcomes. Key words: Pigeon chest; Finite element analysis; Surgical procedures, mini-invasive