How Vertical Trabeculae Affect Vertebral Strength
Author Information
Author(s): Aaron J Fields, Gideon L Lee, Sherry Liu, Michael G Jekir, Edward X Guo, Tony M Keaveny
Primary Institution: University of California, Berkeley
Hypothesis
Vertebral strength is better explained by the bone volume fraction of vertical trabeculae than by the bone volume fraction of all trabeculae.
Conclusion
Variation in vertebral strength across individuals is primarily due to variations in the bone volume fraction of vertical trabeculae.
Supporting Evidence
- The bone volume fraction of vertical trabeculae accounted for more variation in vertebral strength than all trabeculae combined.
- Finite-element analysis showed that major load paths occur through vertically oriented bone.
- The vertical tissue fraction was a significant predictor of vertebral strength.
Takeaway
This study found that the strength of vertebrae is mostly determined by how much vertical bone is present, rather than horizontal bone.
Methodology
The study used experimental compression testing, high-resolution micro-computed tomography (µCT), and micro-finite-element analysis.
Limitations
The study focused only on compressive loading and did not address variations in trabecular thickness or spacing.
Participant Demographics
Participants were elderly human cadavers with an average age of 77.5 years, including 10 males and 6 females.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.005
Statistical Significance
p<0.005
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website