A fully anisotropic hierarchical hybrid cellular automaton algorithm to simulate bone remodeling

Computational models of the bone remodeling process have been utilized to further our understanding of the adaptation of bone architecture to changes in its mechanical environment. The hierarchical hybrid cellular automata (HHCA) algorithm is a multi-scale approach for the simulation of the adaptation of bone. Currently, this remodeling algorithm utilizes the apparent material properties of the trabecular architecture. The objective of this work is to increase the fidelity of the HHCA algorithm by incorporating the local anisotropic properties of these structures. Preliminary analyses display improved efficiency and a more consistent material distribution when incorporating anisotropic properties into the HHCA methodology. (c) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.