Survey of Stress Analyses of the Femoral Hip Prosthesis

The finite element method has been used to analyze hip prostheses for the past 25+ years and has proven to be quite effective. The use of finite element analysis, initially, was restricted to duplicating experimental results but has progressed over the decades in step with the computational capabilities as well as the increased understanding of hip replacement procedures. The mechanics of the bone-prosthesis system is quite complicated in the context of the geometry, material properties, loading and the interaction between the femur and the hip stem. The following article is a survey of the finite element technique as applied by researchers over the past three decades, within given limitations, to solve this complex problem. The discussion is limited to the analysis of the femoral component and consists of the approximations, methodologies and conclusions as reported. Relevant experimental results have also been reviewed. There are 136 references cited.