Biomechanical Analysis of a Patient-Specific Artificial Hip Joint to Design and Manufacture It by 3D Printing

In recent years, improvements in hip replacement procedures have had better outcomes for patients after surgery. With the development of 3D printing technology, artificial hip joints will be designed and manufactured to match each case. The mechanical factor is the most important affection in the longevity of a hip implant’s life, coupled with biocompatibility and strength of materials. In this study, the author will propose a process to design and manufacture a replacement hip joint suitable for the patient’s hip size and structure from CT (Computerized Tomography) or MR imaging. The hip joint is made of non-metal materials such as HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) and PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone) which have biocompatibility and mechanical properties like bone. The effects of materials and parameters design of the artificial hip joint (AHJ) on its mechanical behavior such as the equivalent stress and total deformation in moving and applying load were investigated using the finite element method. The results gave a hip design made of HDPE and reinforced carbon fiber PEEK materials with a proposed design suitable for the studied patient.