ABSTRACT

In most finite element analysis in orthopaedic biomechanics, the trabecular bone is modelled as a continuum. Inhomogenity of material properties and/or anisotropy may be introduced to account for the specific properties of the trabecular bone. However, if one wants to investigate the stability of the trabecular structure (e.g. after insertion of an orthopaedic implant), the propagation of cracks through a trabecular structure or the mechanics of pathologic or traumatic processes at a level where trabecular architecture is important (e.g. the development of osteoporosis), an other type of model of the trabecular structure is required.

A method is proposed by which the trabecular bone is modelled by means of discrete beam elements forming a space truss that is mechanically equivalent witch the spongy bone. Mapping the three dimensional architecture yields the necessary data to construct a detailed finite element model of this structure. To investigate the feasibility of this type of modelling, some idealised models of a vertebral body were constructed.