[Simulation of the rat tibial bone density changes with the finite element method].

OBJECTIVE: To calculate changes of rat tibial density induced by mechanical load with the finite element method. METHOD: A three-dimensional computer model was formed by processing the industrial CT image of rat tibia; bone remodeling results were predicted by using the internal bone remodeling theory presented by Beaupre in conjunction with the finite element method. RESULT: The increments of the elements density and its distribution plot were obtained. CONCLUSION: The simulation results agree well with the results of the biological experiment, so the simulation results were proved to be accurate.