The ability of quantitative ultrasound to predict the mechanical properties of trabecular bone under different strain rates

The ability of quantitative ultrasound to predict the mechanical properties of trabecular bone under different strain rates was investigated. Ultrasound velocity (UV) and broadband attenuation (BUA) were measured for 60 specimens of human trabecular bone. Samples were divided into two equal groups and loaded in compression at the strain rates of 0.0004 and 0.08 s(-1). The ultimate strength, elastic modulus, and energy absorption capacity were determined for each specimen. Specimens tested at 0.08 s(-1) had a mean value of strength 63% higher than the specimens tested at 0.0004 s(-1). The elastic modulus and energy absorption capacity were 82% and 42% higher, respectively, for the higher strain rate. UV and BUA were significantly associated with most mechanical properties at both strain rates. All mechanical properties were also correlated strongly with a linear combination of UV and BUA for both the low and high loading rates. The use of ultrasound parameters may provide good clinical means for assessing the resistance of trabecular bone to both low and high energy trauma. (C) 1997 IPEM Published by Elsevier Science Ltd.