Finite element prediction of proximal femur fracture pattern based on orthotropic behaviour law coupled to quasi-brittle damage

The purpose of this study was to develop a finite element model based on continuum damage mechanics in order to simulate the profile of the fractured area of proximal femur and the complete force–displacement curve from the beginning until complete fracture. The model was developed in term of anisotropic behaviour law coupled to quasi-brittle damage to describe the progressive crack initiation and propagation within proximal femoral. A damage law was developed and implemented into a finite element code (Abaqus) based on experimental observations. To illustrate the potential of the current approach, the right adult human femur previously investigated by Keyak and Falkinstein [1] (Model B: male, age 61) was simulated until complete fracture under one-legged stance load. The femur fracture profile was predicted and compared to clinical observed results. Good agreements were obtained suggesting that the proposed damage model could be used correctly to simulate the force–displacement curve, the fracture type and to simulate the progressive propagation of the crack paths. Present model can contribute towards the development of diagnostic tool that can detect osteoporotic fracture for aged patients in an early stage and predict bone strength accurately.