ISSN: 1546-962X
CODEN: JAIOAD
Published Online: 7 July 2009
Page Count: 10

Fatigue to Fracture: An Informative, Fast, and Reliable Approach for Assessing Medical Implant Durability

Gong, X.-Y.
Medical Implant Mechanics, LLC, Aliso Viejo, CA

Chwirut, D. J.
CardioMed Device Consultants, Rockville, MD

Mitchell, M. R.
Mechanics and Materials Consulting, LLC, Flagstaff, AZ

Choules, B. D.
Med Institute, West Lafayette, IN

(Received 11 March 2009; accepted 27 May 2009)

Abstract

This paper compares the differences between the “test to success” and “test to fracture” paradigms for medical implant durability assessment. It recognizes that test to success can be one of the tests within test to fracture, in addition to a series of shorter cycle, higher force/deformation tests. In addition, by “testing to fracture,” one can validate the fatigue analysis capability, learn the consequences of in vitro fractures, and provide information that can either be used for product improvement or for clinicians to make life-saving decisions.

Keywords:
fatigue, durability, fracture, medical implant, FEA

Paper ID: JAI102412
DOI: 10.1520/JAI102412
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