The microstructural and biomechanical properties of the primary compressive trabecular system in human femoral head

Abstract

To analyze the importance of bone quality, we studied 21 primary compressive trabecular system by micro-computed tomography(micro-CT), finite element analysis and destructive mechanical test. Significant correlations were found between histomorphometry and biomechanical parameters. The results indicate that the bone quality of primary compressive trabecular system is determined more by its combined micro-structural parameters (histomorphometry) and biomechanical parameters than histomorphometry only. Assessment of trabecular bone by finite element analysis may become important not only for assessment of bone quality but also for prediction of bone fracture risk of bone degeneration.