A Mechanical Approach to the Growth Plate Behaviour and Chondrocytes Columns Organization

Abstract

This study aims to explore the behaviour of mechanical stimuli and their effect on growth plate shape under different physiological scenarios and loading conditions. A linear elastic, isotropic, and homogeneous model was implemented to model the epiphyseal progressive ossification and the development of the secondary ossification centre. Results shed light on the role of mechanical stimulus, suggesting that maximum shear stress, hydrostatic stress, and von Mises Stress may contribute to the morphological changes of the growth plate. This model is a useful tool to improve orthopaedic therapies focused on pathologies that imply abnormal bone growth under abnormal mechanical conditions.