Using finite element analysis we have studied the pelvic bony socket and compared it with radiological imaging using threaded acetabular cups of three different shapes (parabolic, conical, hemispherical). The two-dimensional model depicted a planar section through a left pelvic hemisphere. In all three cups the stress in the bony socket increased from lateral towards medial. Compressive stress was found on the superior and inferior parts of the cup, but mainly on the superior aspect, seen radiologically as new trabecular bone formation. The maximum compressive stresses were seen in the cranial curvature of the conical cup, with less in the parabolic form and least in the hemispheric form. The tensile stress at the bottom of the socket increased from the hemispheric to the conical shape. Radiological rarefaction gave an indication of lower stress. There was lower compressive stress between the teeth of the threads. This FE model uses computer simulation to predict bony changes with different designs of implant. The ability to simulate biological conditions is a valuable addition to the testing of mechanical strength.
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