Thirty-two component finite element models of a horse and donkey digit.
Authors: Collins S N, Murray R C, Kneissl S, Stanek C, Hinterhofer C
Journal: Equine veterinary journal
Summary
# Editorial Summary Collins and colleagues developed the first high-resolution finite element models of the equine and equid digit, incorporating 32 functionally relevant anatomical components derived from computed tomography scans and generating meshes exceeding one million elements. Using validated material properties and sophisticated simulation techniques—including flexor tendon prestrain adjustment and single body-weight loading—the researchers quantified stress distributions throughout the digit during both resting and weightbearing states, revealing notably higher stresses in the deep digital flexor tendon (134 MPa in horses, 0.78 MPa in donkeys) compared to the superficial structures. The resulting capsular deformation patterns aligned with known in vivo observations, lending credibility to the models as tools for investigating digit biomechanics in ways that cadaveric or clinical methods cannot achieve. For farriers, veterinarians and physiotherapists, these models offer potential to explore how pathological changes—whether conformational, farrier-related or disease-driven—alter stress distributions within the digit, potentially informing evidence-based approaches to lameness prevention and management of conditions such as navicular disease, laminitis and collateral sesamoidean ligament injuries. This work establishes a computational foundation for mechanistic understanding of orthopaedic problems and rational design of interventions tailored to the biomechanical realities of individual cases.
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Practical Takeaways
- •FE modeling can provide biomechanical insights into digit pathologies without invasive methods, potentially guiding prevention and treatment strategies
- •The validated stress and strain data from these models could help explain tissue damage patterns in conditions like laminitis, navicular syndrome, and tendon injuries
- •Species differences in stress distribution (horse vs. donkey) suggest tailored management approaches may be warranted despite anatomical similarities
Key Findings
- •32-component finite element models of horse and donkey digits were successfully developed from CT data with over 10^6 elements each
- •Deep digital flexor tendon prestrain produced von Mises stress of 134 MPa in horse and 0.78 MPa in donkey; superficial flexor tendon stress was 0.56 MPa and 0.27 MPa respectively
- •Weightbearing at 1× body mass produced maximum capsular stress of 1.46 MPa in horse and 0.89 MPa in donkey, with deformation patterns consistent with in vivo observations
- •High-resolution FE models enable investigation of digit biomechanics and stress/strain levels unobtainable by other means, with potential application to orthopaedic problems