Numerical simulations for ossicular chain reconstruction development

<p dir="ltr">Conductive hearing loss (CHL) resulting from middle ear dysfunction is a prevalent issue that significantly impacts individuals' quality of life. Ossicular Chain Reconstruction (OCR), a widely used surgical technique, aims to restore hearing by replacing damaged middle ear ossicles with prosthetic devices. However, traditional approaches, particularly those using columella-type prostheses, have fallen short in accurately replicating the intricate biomechanics of the middle ear, leading to suboptimal long-term outcomes.</p><p dir="ltr">This thesis focuses on utilising Finite Element (FE) analysis, and experimental studies, alongside advanced additive manufacturing techniques to enhance OCR for CHL treatment. The study emphasises the benefits of computational modelling and 3D printing in creating customised and personalised prosthetic devices, referred to in this study as anatomically accurate prosthetic incus, tailored to the patient's unique middle ear anatomy. This approach holds promise for improving hearing outcomes after prosthesis replacement, as it possibly replicates the natural sound transmission mechanism while protecting the ear from excessive force transmission and prosthesis displacement/extrusion.</p><p dir="ltr">Additionally, the present project underscores the significance of FE analysis in evaluating the performance of prosthetic devices and their ability to mimic normal middle ear biomechanics, even under abnormal conditions, such as high positive or negative pressure levels within the middle ear. The results highlighted the efficacy of the prosthetic incus as a viable alternative for OCR, even when the middle ear encounters high levels of pressure.</p><p dir="ltr">These findings offer appropriate support for the integration of FE analysis into OCR for CHL treatment, offering the potential to predict outcomes and reduce experimental costs. Additionally, personalised prosthetic devices such as the prosthetic incus are suggested for use in OCR. This innovative approach has the potential to significantly improve middle ear surgery and provide better outcomes for patients with conductive hearing loss caused by middle ear associated disease. It shows great promise for making hearing restoration surgeries more successful and effective.</p>