A review of computational models of bone fracture healing

Abstract

In the process of fracture healing, there are many cellular and molecular events that are regulated by mechanical stimuli and biochemical signals. To explore the unknown mechanisms underlying bone fracture healing, optimal fixation configurations, and the design of new treatment strategies, computational healing models provide a good solution. With the simulation of mechanoregulatory healing models, bioregulatory healing models and coupled mechanobioregulatory healing models, healing outcomes can be predicted. In this review, first, we provide an overview of current computational healing models. Their clinical applications are also presented. Then, the limitations of current models and their corresponding solutions are discussed in this review. Finally, future potentials are presented in this review. Multiscale modeling from the intracellular level to the tissue level is essential, and more clinical applications of computational healing models are required in future research.

Keywords: Biochemical signals; Computational biology; Fracture healing; Mechanical stimuli.