Numerical and experimental methodology for evaluation of femoral strength

Abstract

The aim of this study is to determine femoral strength in four female patients, using an experimental and numerical method. The study is based on the analysis of the femoral medical images from patients with similar ages. Using the medical image processing it is possible to use advanced engineering techniques to obtain 3D models and doing an experimental measurement of the cortical thickness, in relevant femoral anatomical plans. To fulfil this purpose, specific modelling programs (ScanIP and ZPrinter) were used, as well, a rapid prototyping technique. The numerical evaluation of the femoral strength will be made with the use of finite element technique, with ANSYS program. Each 3D femur model is submitted to identical loading conditions, allowing stress fields calculation in critical anatomical planes. The numerical and experimental approach will identify the areas with lower mechanical strength, and simultaneously evaluate the thickness influence of the femoral cortical bone.