Finite element modelling of the vibrational behaviour of the human femur using CT-based individualized geometrical and material properties.
Frequency analysis of long bones has been investigated as a tool to assess bone quality or integrity. The objective of the present paper was to develop a three-dimensional finite element model of a fresh human femur with geometrical and mechanical properties derived from quantitative computer tomography images. This model was then exercised and the results were compared to those obtained from a vibration analysis technique. The percent relative error between the numerically and experimentally derived results was found about 4%. Finally, the influence of mechanical properties on the resonant spectre was studied. The results exhibit the limitations of the vibrational technique to detect slight material changes.
Couteau
B
B
INSERM U305, Biomécanique, Centre Hospitalier Hôtel Dieu, Toulouse, France.
Hobatho
M C
MC
Darmana
R
R
Brignola
J C
JC
Arlaud
J Y
JY
D000368:Aged; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D005269:Femur / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008954:Models, Biological; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed; D014732:Vibration