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Fracture mechanics of bone
1Biomedical Science Department, General Motors Corporation, Warren, MI 48090.
Journal of Biomechanical Engineering
|November 1, 1993
Summary
This study reviews fracture mechanics in long bones, detailing parameters and their application to human bone. Further research is needed to predict whole bone fractures from external loads for protective system design.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Orthopedics
- Materials Science
Background:
- Fracture mechanics principles have been applied to long bone fractures for over a century.
- Predicting bone fracture under loading is crucial for trauma biomechanics and orthopedics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the progress in applying fracture mechanics to long bone fractures.
- To discuss current research and identify future needs in bone fracture mechanics.
Main Methods:
- Review of independent verifications of bone fracture mechanics parameters.
- Analysis of studies on bone density, specimen thickness, crack length, plastic zone size, and crack velocity.
- Examination of techniques for applying fracture mechanics to human compact bone.
Main Results:
- Bone fracture mechanics parameters have been investigated in bovine bone, considering factors like density and crack velocity.
- Application to human compact bone faced geometric constraints but has progressed.
- Orientation dependence of fracture mechanics parameters is being defined.
Conclusions:
- Significant progress has been made in applying fracture mechanics to long bones.
- Further research is required to determine parameters for human bone, including age effects.
- Extending this knowledge is vital for predicting whole bone fractures and designing protective systems.
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