Modelling of anisotropic cortical bone based on degradation mechanism

Abstract

When an orthopaedic prosthesis is implanted, it is essential to ensure bone remodelling and to maintain the proper mechanical properties under specific loading conditions. The coupling between the remodelling and the loading is ensured by the mechanical stress inducing the osteo- genesis around the implant (Frost 2003). The objective of the present work is to develop a finite element tool and a multiscale mechanical model of the behaviour of the cortical bone in order to be able to optimize the stiffness of the prosthetic implant and to avoid overloaded or under- loaded regions.