In vivo micro-CT-based FE models of guinea pigs with titanium implants: an STL-based approach

Abstract This paper focuses on methods for generating a finite element model (FEM) based on in vivo microfocus computed tomography (μCT) images of guinea pig tibiae with a titanium percutaneous implant. A standard triangulated language (STL)-based approach was developed. Bone geometry was derived based on a pre-operative, metal artefact-free STL representation. Correct positioning of the implant with respect to the bone was implemented in a matching procedure of the post-operative bone representation onto the pre-operative representation. After further adaptation of the STL triangulation, it was converted into a tetrahedral FE mesh. To build FE models based on μCT-derived STL representations is a more efficient and accurate procedure than by implementing a CAD-based approach. The new STL-based procedure increases the usefulness of FE models as an interpretation tool for in vivo μCT images. In future work, these in vivo μCT-based finite element models will be used to implement algorithms that simulate adaptive bone response to controlled mechanical stimuli.