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Micro-Finite Element Analysis of the Proximal Femur on the Basis of High-Resolution Magnetic Resonance Images

  • Imaging (T Lang and F Wehrli, Section Editors)
  • Published:
Current Osteoporosis Reports Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Hip fractures have catastrophic consequences. The purpose of this article is to review recent developments in high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-guided finite element analysis (FEA) of the hip as a means to determine subject-specific bone strength.

Recent Findings

Despite the ability of DXA to predict hip fracture, the majority of fractures occur in patients who do not have BMD T scores less than − 2.5. Therefore, without other detection methods, these individuals go undetected and untreated. Of methods available to image the hip, MRI is currently the only one capable of depicting bone microstructure in vivo. Availability of microstructural MRI allows generation of patient-specific micro-finite element models that can be used to simulate real-life loading conditions and determine bone strength.

Summary

MRI-based FEA enables radiation-free approach to assess hip fracture strength. With further validation, this technique could become a potential clinical tool in managing hip fracture risk.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Departments of Radiology and Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Spruce Street, 1 Founders Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA

    Chamith S. Rajapakse

  2. Department of Radiology, New York University, 426 1st Avenue, New York, NY, 10010, USA

    Gregory Chang

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  1. Chamith S. Rajapakse
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Correspondence to Chamith S. Rajapakse.

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Chamith Rajapakse and Gregory Chang have a patent pending (62/593,626).

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Rajapakse, C.S., Chang, G. Micro-Finite Element Analysis of the Proximal Femur on the Basis of High-Resolution Magnetic Resonance Images. Curr Osteoporos Rep 16, 657–664 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11914-018-0481-5

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