Design and experimental analysis of a new malleovestibulopexy prosthesis using a finite element model of the human middle ear

Acta Otorrinolaringol Esp. 2015 Jan-Feb;66(1):16-27. doi: 10.1016/j.otorri.2014.02.011. Epub 2014 May 20.
[Article in English, Spanish]

Abstract

Introduction and objective: Many designs of prostheses are available for middle ear surgery. In this study we propose a design for a new prosthesis, which optimises mechanical performance in the human middle ear and improves some deficiencies in the prostheses currently available. Our objective was to design and assess the theoretical acoustic-mechanical behaviour of this new total ossicular replacement prosthesis.

Methods: The design of this new prosthesis was based on an animal model (an iguana). For the modelling and mechanical analysis of the new prosthesis, we used a dynamic 3D computer model of the human middle ear, based on the finite elements method (FEM).

Results: The new malleovestibulopexy prosthesis design demonstrates an acoustical-mechanical performance similar to that of the healthy human middle ear. This new design also has additional advantages, such as ease of implantation and stability in the middle ear.

Conclusions: This study shows that computer simulation can be used to design and optimise the vibroacoustic characteristics of middle ear implants and demonstrates the effectiveness of a new malleovestibulopexy prosthesis in reconstructing the ossicular chain.

Keywords: Finite elements method; Maleovestibulopexia; Malleovestibulopexy; Mecánica del oído medio; Middle ear mechanics; Middle ear prosthesis; Método de los elementos finitos; Osiculoplastia; Ossiculoplasty; Prótesis de oído medio; Prótesis de sustitución osicular total; Total ossicular replacement prosthesis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Acoustics
  • Animals
  • Biomechanical Phenomena
  • Computer Simulation*
  • Ear, Middle / anatomy & histology*
  • Finite Element Analysis
  • Humans
  • Iguanas
  • Models, Biological*
  • Ossicular Prosthesis*
  • Ossicular Replacement
  • Prosthesis Design
  • Titanium
  • Vibration

Substances

  • Titanium