SEDL / STP / STP1515-EB / STP48992S

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

Pages: 14    Published: Jan 2010

Download this paper for $25 PDF (752K)          View License Agreement
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.