Measuring the global mechanical properties of the human thorax: Costo-vertebral articulation.

Biomechanical simulation of the human thorax, e.g. for 3D-printed rib implant optimisation, requires an accurate knowledge of the associated articulation and tissue stiffness.

Measurement of global mechanical properties of human thorax: Costal cartilage.

Surgical resection of chest wall tumours may lead to a loss of ribcage stability and requires reconstruction to allow for physical thorax functioning. When titanium implants are used especially for larger, lateral defects, they tend to break. Implant failures are mainly due to specific mechanical requirements for chest-wall reconstruction which must mimic the physiological properties and which are not yet met by available implants.

Attachment of upper arm prostheses with a subcutaneous osseointegrated implant in transhumeral amputees.

Background: The stump-socket interface is of utmost importance for prosthetic function in transhumeral amputees. Stability of this connection may be improved using a newly designed subcutaneous implant.

Objectives: The purpose was to determine the effect of the implant together with customized socket designs on the range of motion of the shoulder and the prosthetic function compared to conventional fitting.