Prediction of trabecular bone failure parameters using a tissue failure criterion and muFE analysis

We investigated if failure behavior of trabecular bone at the apparent level as measured in compression tests can be predicted from tissue loading conditions and a tissue yield criterion. Micro- finite element models of 5 bone specimens were made using a micro-CT scanner. The failure behavior of these specimens was measured in compression tests and simulated with non-linear micro- finite element analyses assuming elastic-perfectly plastic tissue yield behavior. It was found that the ultimate stress could be predicted within 15% of the measured values, the ultimate strain, however was underestimated by 35%-49%. Although a more realistic description of tissue yield behavior is likely necessary to improve agreement, it is concluded that the approach introduced here is feasible.