Development of an Individualised Distal Fibula Locking Hook Plate Through Digital Orthopaedic Technology and Its Biomechanical Finite Element Analysis
Le Kang, Jian‐Qiang Cui, Yu‐Jin Dong, Bao‐Lei Guo, Xue‐Meng Qin, Mao‐Wei YangABSTRACT
Objective
To develop an individualised distal fibular locking hook plate for Danis–Weber type A fractures and assess its preclinical biomechanics.
Methods
Anatomical measurements of the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) and calcaneofibular ligament (CFL) were pooled to define ligament attachment sites and optimise hook‐tooth placement. A cobalt‐chromium alloy locking hook plate was designed using computer‐aided design software, fabricated by 3D printing, and evaluated by finite element analysis under static, inversion, eversion, and external‐rotation loading conditions.
Results
A 9.0‐mm gap between the hook teeth was selected from the pooled anatomical measurements. Across all tested loading conditions, fracture‐site displacement remained below 1.0 mm. Under 700‐N external‐rotation loading, the maximum von Mises stress was 23.0 MPa in the distal fibula and 53.9 MPa in the plate.
Conclusion
The plate demonstrated anatomical compatibility and favourable finite element performance. Cadaveric testing and prospective clinical studies are required before clinical effectiveness or routine use can be established.