Design and analysis of coupling methods for modular endoprosthetic systemsas an alternative to the conical coupling

Modular endoprostheses are often used in bone tumor management. However, th e conical coupling that connects the various modules has several shortcomin gs. As an alternative, four new couplings have been developed. To find out if they have sufficient strength and show no movement during loading, each coupling was analysed using the finite element method. Bolt force and frict ion coefficient was varied to examine their influence. From the analysis it was concluded that coupling B, a dovetail coupling, meets all requirements and is the best alternative to the conical coupling. Sensitivity to bolt f orce and friction coefficient is very limited.