Two modalities of injury can result in wedge fractures of the vertebrae: atraumatic, osteoporotic fracture and seat-belt induced fracture during vehicular frontal impact. To reduce occurrence of these fractures, enhanced knowledge of the fracture mechanisms and determinants of vertebral strength is required. The objective of this research is to improve the current understanding of these areas of biomechanics. Ultrasound technology will be used to determine material properties for developing finite element models of spinal functional units, and the contributions of cortical and trabecular bone to vertebral strength will be assessed. Whole body and regional impact experiments will be conducted to determine the correlation between fracture mechanics and mechanical properties. Computational and experimental results will be compared for validation. Interactive activities will include teaching a combined undergraduate/graduate course in biomaterials during each of the first two years and an advanced course in biomaterials the third year. Additionally, seminars will be organized featuring experts in bioengineering. About 50 percent of the speakers will be women researchers. Workshops will be organized and opportunities for male and female students to visit research laboratories of women in industry, hospitals, and other universities will be offered through the Society of Women Engineers and ASME.
