Study and Analysis of Adding Fins in Conventional Locking Compression Plate for Suitability as Biodegradable Implants Using FEA

Biomedical research is becoming more and more interested in biodegradable materials, particularly when it comes to designing implants to cure fractures. New materials that have the potential to revolutionize fracture surgery include magnesium alloys. Because they completely decompose after supporting the bone throughout the healing process, these biodegradable implants—which typically consist of a plate and screws offer substantial benefits in orthopaedic applications. Furthermore, they have the ability to release healthy nutrients that promote healing while maintaining sufficient mechanical strength. The design of a biodegradable plate implant for femoral shaft fractures is the main topic of this research. Important considerations are the plate’s mechanical stability during the healing process, consistent biodegradation rate, and dimensional accuracy. Standard femur measurements, optimum plate shape, and a known rate of biodegradation are the foundations for the design of the implant plate and the screws that hold it in place while securing the fractured femoral segments. Computational structural analysis is used to confirm the implant design’s safety and efficacy for a 90 kg human under pertinent loading and boundary conditions. The implant maintains the necessary safety factor during a 6-month period with an average monthly deterioration rate. Three to 6 months after the healing process is over, the plate completely deteriorates, with the plate fins playing a key role.