Biomechanical

Publications

Analysis of in vivo corneal elastic modulus change after collagen crosslinking for keratoconus

This work applies patient-specific inverse finite element biomechanics to quantify corneal stiffening after riboflavin-UVA crosslinking in keratoconus, finding an average doubling of elastic modulus within the treatment zone and notable interpatient variability. Sensitivity to scleral support and UV attenuation highlights how spatially resolved mechanical modeling can elucidate the biomechanical underpinnings of CXL efficacy and inform tailored treatment strategies.

The Pathogenesis of Retinal Damage in Blunt Eye Trauma: Finite Element Modeling

A finite element biomechanics study simulated BB impact on a generic eye to show that high-rate shockwave-induced pressures and multiaxial strains can tear the retina independently of vitreous traction. Vitreous presence dampens shockwaves but does not prevent injury when negative pressures and strain rates exceed tissue strength, highlighting the need to consider dynamic loading in ocular protection.

Potentiating 3rd Body Debris Ingress into the Bearing Surface during THA Impingement/Subluxation

This biomechanics paper explores how fluid convection during total hip arthroplasty subluxation can lead to third-body debris ingress, a primary cause of implant failure. Utilizing a detailed computational fluid dynamics model, the study quantifies the impact of various implant design parameters on this process. The findings identify critical design features that can be optimized to mitigate debris entry, thus improving implant longevity.

Effect of Material Properties on Predicted Vesical Pressure

T. Spirka, K. Kenton, L. Brubaker, M. Damaser

This study leverages FE biomechanics to simulate vesical pressure during cough-induced abdominal loading, comparing nonlinear and linear tissue models and performing a material sensitivity analysis. Despite minimal impact of material variations on pressure outcomes, deformation patterns revealed stiffness-dependent biomechanics, demonstrating that vesical pressure is robust for early model validation but must be complemented by displacement criteria for comprehensive biomechanical fidelity.

A Computational Model of Aging and Calcification in the Aortic Heart Valve

E. J. Weinberg, F. J. Schoen, M. R. K. Mofrad

This paper develops a computational biomechanical model of the aortic heart valve to simulate the effects of aging and calcification on its function. By integrating changes in tissue mechanical properties and geometry, the model predicts the degradation of valve performance over time. This offers a critical tool for understanding disease progression and informing the design of treatments for calcific aortic stenosis.