This study aims at assessing the mechanical behavior of a composite
metal/
polymer bar to be implanted in the retrosternal position, in order to correct chest wall
deformities, such as
Pectus Excavatum. A 300-mm-long, 12.7-mm-wide, and 3.5-mm-thick Nuss bar was considered, made of different metals and biodegradable
polymers, fixed at its extremities, and with a constant force of 250 N applied on its center. Two different geometries for the
metal elements to be embedded in the polymeric matrix were tested: in the former, thin
metal sheets and in the latter, cylindrical
metal reinforcing rods were considered. Finite
element method simulation results are reported, in terms of maximum stress and strain of the bar. Furthermore, the maximum stress values obtained by varying
metal sheet thickness or rod diameter (and therefore the volumetric percentage of
metal within the matrix) for different material combinations are also shown; optimal configuration for the
Pectus Excavatum treatment was finally identified for a composite Nuss bar.