Investigation of Fatigue Behaviour of Plate Applications in Clavicle Fractures by Finite Element Method According to the Plate Replacement Position

Background: The clavicle is an anatomical structure which has an important role on the movements of the shoulder and arm. Clavicular fractures are a common problem in skeletal system injuries. The main purpose is to achieve a painless shoulder joint and to optimise its function in clavicle fractures.n this study, it was aimed to investigate biomechanically the application of anatomic plaque used in clavicle fractures. Methods: In this study, a normal anatomical clavicle was modeled using computed tomography images in DICOM format, a fracture line was created on the clavicle and the plate was placed superiorly and anteriorly. The stresses on the plates under axial compression and console bending were investigated on the formed models by using finite element method. Analyzes were made non-linear using ANSYS (v. 18) and same limit conditions were applied in all models. Findings: The maximum equivalent stresses (MES) on the plaques were observed in the analyzes and it was found that the tension on the plaque, especially placed anteriorly, decreased. Fatigue behaviours were compared according to the positions of the plates placed on the clavicle. Results: In this study, the finite element method was used which showed less tension on the plates placed on the anterior of the clavicle. It was also found that the plates placed in the anterior region were safer in terms of fatigue fracture stability due to longest longevity of the plates.