A Biomechanical Assessment of Age Specific Donor Allograft Bone

· (a – Musculoskeletal Transplant Foundation)

PURPOSE: (1) to biomechanically evaluate various aged cortical bone dowels and (2) to quantify the mechanical strength of bone dowels with axial or transverse fiber orientation.

METHODS: Fresh/frozen cortical dowels were machined from femoral rings producing cylinders of equal volume. Dowels were shaped in either an axial or transverse fiber orientation. Each specimen was compressed at 3mm/min until failure.

RESULTS: For all age groups (<46, 46-55, 56-65, 66-76, >76 yrs) the axially oriented specimens performed superiorly. The youngest age group (<46) had the greatest peak loads. No significant differences in yield strain between any axial age groups were detected.

CONCLUSION: Axial fibers resulted in increased peak load and yield strain. Overall, the youngest bone performed optimally. However, the elder bone still performed at an adequate level sufficient for fusion and axial load bearing support.

· If noted, the author indicates something of value received. The codes are identified as: a-research or institutional support; b-miscellaneous funding; c-royalties; d-stock options.