Individual modeling method of a bone based on the X-ray CT data

Reliable stress analysis of a bone requires the precise finite-element mode l. This study deals with an automated method of an individual finite-elemen t model of a bone based on the X-ray CT data. The method consists of two pr ocesses. The first process produces an approximate finite-element model of a bony shape with small tetrahedral elements. For the modeling, various typ es of tetrahedral elements with almost same volume were provided. The secon d process transforms the approximate model so that the model is fitted to t he outer shape. We applied the method to a human lumber vertebra and a huma n mandible. The proposed method successfully generated the exact finite-ele ment models of the bones.