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Development and Validation of a Physical Model of the Trapeziometacarpal Joint
D.J. Esenkbrink (TU Delft - Mechanical Engineering)
G. Smit – Mentor (TU Delft - Mechanical Engineering)
Gerald A. Kraan – Mentor (Reinier de Graaf Gasthuis)
A. Seth – Graduation committee member (TU Delft - Mechanical Engineering)
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Abstract
Background The trapeziometacarpal (TMC) joint plays an important role in routine tasks. However, little consensus exists on the composition of its ligaments and their contribution to joint stability.
Aim This thesis aimed to develop a physical model of the TMC joint to investigate the influence of ligaments on joint stability.
Method The model was constructed using 3D-printed bones and ligaments represented by Dyneema rope, actuated through tendon routing. Its kinematics were compared to subject-specific in-vivo data from 4D CT. Both active and passive actuation trials were performed.
Results The model successfully reproduced circumduction motion, but its range of motion deviated from in-vivo results. Active and passive actuation produced comparable outcomes for circumduction, but discrepancies in pure motions revealed an oversimplification of the actuation system.
Conclusion This thesis presents, to the best of the author’s knowledge, the first physical model of the TMC joint. Although simplifications in ligament representation and actuation reduced anatomical accuracy, it lays the foundation for further research and clinical application in thumb biomechanics.