Biomechanical simulation of thorax deformation using finite element approach

• DOI: 10.1186/s12938-016-0132-y
• Publication Date: 2016-02-06T05:02:05Z
• Authors: Guangzhi Zhang; Xian Chen; Junji Ohgi; Toshiro Miura; Akira Nakamoto; Chikanori Matsumura; Seiryo Sugiura; Toshiaki Hisada
• Keywords: Thorax (insect anatomy); Diaphragm (acoustics); Intercostal muscle; Muscles of respiration; Intercostal space; Biomechanics

The biomechanical simulation of the human respiratory system is expected to be a useful tool for diagnosis and treatment diseases. Because deformation thorax significantly influences airflow in lungs, we focused on simulating by introducing contraction intercostal muscles diaphragm, which are main responsible during breathing. We constructed finite element model thorax, including rib cage, muscles, diaphragm. To reproduce muscle contractions, introduced Hill-type transversely isotropic hyperelastic continuum skeletal model, allows diaphragm contract along direction fibres with clinically measurable activation active force–length relationship. anatomical fibre orientations were introduced. Thorax consists movements ribs By activating able pump-handle bucket-handle motions observed motion In order confirm effectiveness this approach, simulated normal quiet breathing compared results four-dimensional computed tomography (4D-CT) images verification. can modelling according mechanics contractions. reproduction representative comparison deformations 4D-CT demonstrated proposed approach. This work may provide platform establishing computational system.