Advancing Osteoporosis Assessment Through a Numerical Study Utilizing Ultrasonic Waves in Femur Bone Evaluation

Abstract

Objective

Osteoporosis, a musculoskeletal condition characterized by bone density loss, significantly heightens the risk of fractures. Early detection of this condition is paramount in both its prevention and effective treatment. Traditionally, osteoporosis diagnosis relies heavily on dual X-ray absorptiometry. However, this research demonstrates an initiative by utilizing quantitative ultrasound as a cost-effective, noninvasive alternative, particularly advantageous in certain scenarios.

Methods

By applying the finite element method, we simulate ultrasound propagation within intricate femur head models, incorporating both healthy and osteoporotic conditions. Through meticulous analysis, we unveil novel speed-based and amplitude-based indices derived from ultrasound signals, offering insights of high resolution into bone evaluation.

Results

Our findings illuminate a paradigm shift: as osteoporosis advances, there is a discernible decrease in speed of sound values, while ultrasound amplitude exhibits intriguing fluctuations, dependent on intricate tissue interactions such as diverse acoustic impedance at tissues' interface and echo reflections within the bone models.

Conclusions

The approach used in this study promises to reshape osteoporosis assessment, paving the way to revolutionize prevention and treatment strategies. The associated results of our study also could open up new avenues for investigating ultrasound propagation in three-dimensional bone models.