Prediction of Femoral Bone Strength in the Presence of Tumors and Tumor-like Lesions Using Finite Element Analysis

Abstract

Background/aim: Patients with bone tumors in their femurs are at risk of developing pathological fractures. Tumors with high fracture risk, especially fragile malignant lesions, are treated surgically. However, it is difficult to estimate bone strength based on clinical and radiographic findings. This study aimed to determine whether finite element analysis (FEA) provides useful information on the bone strength of femurs with tumors and tumor-like lesions.

Patients and methods: Total femoral computed tomography (CT) data (slice thickness, 0.5 mm) were retrospectively obtained from 18 patients with femoral bone tumors. Three-dimensional FEA of femurs were developed using CT data. The virtual femoral head compression test and direct three-point bending test were performed on the femurs using FEA to predict bone strength and fracture location. The compression direction was parallel to the mechanical axis, whereas that of the three-point bending test was applied to the tumor itself.

Results: In the femoral head compression test using FEA, 13 out of 18 femurs with bone tumors fractured at the femoral head, while 14 out of 18 femurs fractured at the tumor site during the virtual direct three-point bending test. The median loads predicted using the femoral head compression test were significantly higher than those predicted by the direct three-point bending test.

Conclusion: The FEA results indicated that pathological fractures are unlikely to occur during normal walking. Direct external forces applied to the tumor body may lead to fractures.

Keywords: Femur; bone tumor; finite element analysis; orthopedics.