In-Silico Models of Trabecular Bone: A Sensitivity Analysis Perspective

This chapter provides an overview from a sensitivity analysis perspective of computational mechanical modeling of trabecular bone, where models are generated from Computed Tomography images. Specifically, the effect of model development choices on the model results is systematically reviewed and analyzed for both micro-Finite Element and continuum-Finite Element models. Particular emphasis is placed on the image processing effects (thresholding, down-sampling, image to material properties relationships), the mesh-related aspects (mesh size, element type), and the computational representation of the boundary conditions. Typical issues are highlighted and recommendations are proposed with respect to various model applications, including global stiffness/strength and local failure stress/strain behavior.