Solute transport in lacunar-canalicular system with different porosity

Abstract

Osteoporosis leads to a decrease in trabecular bone thickness and an increase in trabecular spaces. Additionally, the LCS (lacunar-canalicular system) porosity within the bone also enlarges. Consequently, this results in an insufficient supply of nutrients required by osteocytes, ultimately leading to further deterioration of bone structure and increased osteoporosis. This study establishes a two-dimensional ideal model of the LCS with fluid-solid coupling. Particle tracking is employed to simulate solute transport within the LCS, enabling quantitative analysis of the impact of different porosity rates on solute transport. The results reveal that the efficiency of solute transport decreases with increasing porosity. Additionally, excessively low porosity also led to reduced transport efficiency. The research findings elucidate the impact of trabecular structural changes caused by osteoporosis on solute transport within the bone. These findings can provide healthcare professionals and researchers with strategies and theoretical guidance for the treatment of osteoporosis.