Osteoporosis.  2012 Aug;10(2):61-66.

Changes in the Microstructural and Mechanical Properties in the Medial Condyle of Human Distal Femur in Advanced Osteoarthritis

• Kim KK
• Baek MH
• Won YY

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
The purpose of this study is to analyze and compare the micro-structural and mechanical properties of subchondral trabecular bone of non-osteoarthritic and osteoarthritic distal femur using micro-images based on finite element analysis.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Twenty distal femurs were harvested from 10 cadavers. The subchondral trabeculae were obtained from the middle of the articular surface of the medial femoral condyle of distal femurs. A total of 20 specimens were scanned using the micro-CT system. Micro-CT images were converted to micro-finite element model using the mesh technique, and micro-finite element analysis was then performed for assessment of the mechanical properties.
RESULTS
According to the results, trabecular bone of osteoarthritic distal femur showed a decrease in trabecular thickness, bone volume fraction, structure model index, and yield stress and an increase in trabecular separation and structure model index.
CONCLUSIONS
Results of bone morphometry index and strength showed greater deterioration of microstructure and decreased mechanical strength in subchondral trabeculae of the osteoarthritic group.

Keyword

Trabecular bone; osteoarthritis; FE-model; Micro-CT

MeSH Terms

Cadaver
Femur
Humans
Osteoarthritis