Computer Modelling of the Electric Conductivity of Cortical Bone
摘要
This work presents a three-dimensional computational model developed to simulate the electrical conductivity of cortical bone structure. The model describes the vascular network formed by Haversian and Volkmann canals, integrating geometrical and structural parameters obtained from histological studies. Three electrical conductivity scenarios were evaluated, considering both dry and hydrated bone conditions, to calibrate the conductivity of the porous phase based on experimental data. The results show good agreement with experimentally reported values of axial and tangential conductivity, validating the predictive capability of the model. Additionally, electrical anisotropy was analyzed as a function of vascular canal density, revealing that Haversian canals have a more significant impact on axial conductivity (~1.27% per canal) compared to the tangential contribution of Volkmann canals (~0.2% per canal). These findings highlight how bone microstructure influences electrical conduction and provide a useful tool for the development of biomedical technologies, such as electrical impedance tomography and monitoring of bone regeneration.