A three-dimensional finite element model of the radiocarpal joint: distal radius fracture step-off and stress transfer.

Displaced intra-articular distal radius fractures are difficult to treat, with numerous associated complications. The potential onset of post-traumatic osteoarthritis (OA) is a major concern. The relationship between malreduced intra-articular fracture of the distal radius and subsequent early onset of radiocarpal OA is clinically important, yet poorly understood. To better understand this presumed mechanical relationship, detailed information regarding joint loading, kinematics and associated stress distributions must be obtained. Toward this end, a three-dimensional finite element (3D FE) contact model of the radiocarpal joint has been developed, including the radius, lunate, scaphoid, articulations between these bones and selected soft tissues near the joint. FE model geometry was derived from cryomicrotome sections of a cadaver wrist. Radiocarpal contact stress distributions in the intact and simulated malreduced fracture conditions, previously collected using a cadaveric intra-articular fracture model, are used to establish validity of the computational model. Finally, a section of the distal radius constituting the entire lunate fossa was displaced 1,2 and 3 mm to represent a depressed lunate die-punch fracture.