Prediction of the strength of the neck of femur from its radiological appearance.

In this study 39 male and female cadaveric femoral necks of ages between 21 and 89 years have been radiographed and subsequently mechanically tested to determine failure load. A structural model has been developed, in an attempt to predict the failure load of specimens solely from measurements made from an anteroposterior radiograph of the neck region. Good correlation was obtained between the predicted and experimental values for the range tested. The influence of average bone porosity is discussed. It is believed that this method, with modifications will provide a basis for the quantitative assessment of femoral neck strength in the clinical situation.