A resolution restriction for Wolff's law of trabecular architecture.

Abstract

A rigid constructionist view of Wolff's trajectorial theory of trabecular architecture, called the "orthodox theory," requires that the trabeculae of cancellous bone intersect at right angles exactly like the stress trajectories with which they are associated by the theory. It is well established that trabeculae do not always intersect at right angles. The author discusses the fallacy in the orthodox interpretation of Wolff's law, and suggests that a "resolution length restriction" be imposed on the trajectorial theory to avoid interpretations that lead to the fallacy.