Finite element studies on Triply Periodic Minimal Surfaces (TPMS)–based hip replacement implants

Hip joint replacement surgeries, specifically total hip arthroplasty (THA), play a crucial role in improving the patient’s range of motion and decreasing discomfort caused by damaged hip joints. Unfortunately, obstacles such as stress on the affected area (stress shielding), bone deterioration, and implant malfunctions continue to persist. To address these challenges, the present study delves into lightweight and porous hip implants, specifically those featuring Triply Periodic Minimal Surfaces (TPMS), using finite element analysis (FEA). TPMS-based hip implants, namely, Gyroid and Split-P structures, are modeled as per industry standards and compared with the traditional Solid implant. Computer tomography (CT) has been taken of a femur bone. The resulting Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) images have been converted to 3D model using 3D Slicer software. Each of the 3D modeled implants is assembled with femur bone, and finally, FEA has been conducted as per ISO 7206–4:2010 standard and then compared for overall stress distribution, strain, and deformation. Split-P implant resulted in the highest stress concentrations, against the Gyroid implant, which showed stress levels well below the critical limits. Additionally, a Gyroid-based implant resulted in a 28% weight reduction as compared to the Solid implant and concluded as an excellent choice among the three implants. With a porosity of 70% against the Solid, a Gyroid implant is an excellent choice for osteointegration, thereby assisting bone growth and tissue regeneration. This study provides crucial insights while designing hip implants leading for better treatment options and elevated standards in orthopedic surgery.