Multiscale Enthesis Mechanics
Abstract
The tendon-to-bone insertion site (enthesis) represents a fascinating example of a multiscale natural optimization of the joint between composite orthotropic (tendon) and composite isotropic (bone) tissues with vastly different properties. The composition and properties of tendon vary in a narrow region adjacent to bone. The result is an optimized attachment possessing desirable strength, stiffness and toughness. The multifunctional optimization is achieved through material and morphological grading occurring on nanoscale, microscale and macroscale. The effectiveness and response of the enthesis are affected by its mechanics on all these scales. In this paper, we outline mechanical issues pertinent to multiscale mechanics of enthesis concentrating on state-of-the art knowledge as well as pressing issues that should be addressed to properly and accurately model enthesis. We demonstrate aspects of mechanics on several scales that contribute to an optimized insertion site. In case of a post-trauma healing, recovered insertion site does not exhibit such optimization as is reflected in high repeated failure rates that can reach up to 94% in certain populations. Therefore, the multiscale mechanical analysis of the tendon-to-bone insertion site can help in developing restorative surgical protocols and postoperational therapy. Such knowledge is also helpful for biomimetic engineering solutions aimed at joining of dissimilar materials.
Recommended Citation
V. Birman et al., "Multiscale Enthesis Mechanics," Proceedings of the 20th International Conference on Composite Materials (2015, Copenhagen, Denmark), International Committee on Composite Materials, Jul 2015.
Meeting Name
20th International Conference on Composite Materials, ICCM 2015 (2015: Jul. 19-24, Copenhagen, Denmark)
Department(s)
Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
Keywords and Phrases
Biological composites; Micromechanics; Multiscale modelling; Optimization
Document Type
Article - Conference proceedings
Document Version
Citation
File Type
text
Language(s)
English
Rights
© 2015 International Committee on Composite Materials, All rights reserved.
Publication Date
01 Jul 2015
Comments
This work was funded in part by the National Institutes of Health through grant U01EB016422.