Bone Strength of the Primary Compression Trabeculae in Human Calcaneus

Abstract

Objectives: The accuracy of bone strength can be improved for medically treating osteoporosis by diagnosing and predicting fracture risk. In this study, we calculated the material properties of calcaneus bone and evaluated the statistical correlation of the bone mineral density (BMD) with morphometry indices and bone strength.

Materials & Methods: Twelve cored bone samples were obtained from the primary compressive trabeculae of human calcaneus. All samples were scanned with a Lunar PIXImusⓡ, and two-dimensional serial section images were obtained on a μ-computed tomography system. A mechanical test was performed with an Instron universal testing machine and finite element analysis (FEA) to determine material properties and bone strength.

Results: The material property of the samples was 2.97 GPA. BMD was significantly correlated with bone strength and morphometric indices except for Tb.Sp, DA, and Tb.N. The statistical relationship between bone strength and the morphometric indices was significant except for DA.

Conclusions: FEA based on in vivo high resolution serial section images can be used to directly evaluate bone strength and will be a useful tool in clinical practice for diagnosing osteoporosis and predicting fracture risk.