Biomechanical evaluations of hip fracture using finite element model that models individual differences of femur

This paper is concerned with an individual finite element modeling system for femur and biomechanical evaluations of the influences of loading conditions, bone shape and bone density on risks of hip fracture. Firstly, a method to construct an individual finite element model by morphological parameters that represent femoral shapes was developed. Using the models with different shapes constructed by this method, the effects of fall direction, posture of upper body, femur shape and bone density on hip fracture were discussed. The results showed that the fall direction influences the fracture type but its effects depend on the sex. A backward posture increases a risk of a cervical fracture. Diameter of femur neck showed significant influence on fracture type. Though osteoporosis does not cause a fatal decrease of bone strength, it increases the risk of hip fracture.