Biomedical Engineering (MEng)
Orthopaedic Biomechanics (UG)
Module aims
In this module you will be introduced to and develop your understanding of the basic mechanics of the musculoskeletal system. The course will cover the structure and function of the musculoskeletal tissues (bone, cartilage, muscle, tendon, ligament), the mechanics of the tissue (or tissue's response to mechanics), diseases and injury of the tissues, and will touch on clinical treatments.
Learning outcomes
Upon successful completion of this module you will be able to: Describe musculoskeletal tissue structure and function using the correct terminology Discuss the mechanical properties of musculoskeletal tissues and how these are affected by disease Evaluate effects of loading on the musculoskeletal system Compare the outcomes of different kinematic and kinetic scenarios Critically appraise the influence of implants on bone Calculate muscle and joint forces by applying mechanics principles to musculoskeletal systems Present findings of independent review of a topic for an audience of peers Write a research proposal to a professional standard
Module syllabus
Skeletal development Muscle structure & function Bone mechanics, strength & structure Bone growth, adaptation, and fracture healing Cartilage structure and function, including osteoarthritis treatments and therapies Tendon and ligament structure, function & mechanics Joint structure, function, mechanics & tribology Implants: knee, hip, shoulder Spine biomechanics Proposal writing
Pre-requisites
Mechanics (basic solid mechanics, dynamics, kinematics). Students without these prerequisites should speak to the lecturer to determine if their background is suitable. Students on the iBSc course should obtain the requisite knowledge from Fundamentals of Biomedical Engineering.
Teaching methods
Lectures: 18 hours
Tutorials: 10 hours
Assessments
Examinations:
● Written exam: Final exam; 76% weighting
Rubrics: 2.5 hour long exam. Closed book. All questions are compulsory.
Outline answers to past papers will be available
Courseworks:
● Problem sheet: Problem sheet 1; 5% weighting; Problem sheet
● Problem sheet: Problem sheet 2; 5% weighting; Problem sheet
● Problem sheet: Problem sheet 3; 5% weighting; Problem sheet
Feedback : All marked problem sheet questions will be marked and returned within 2 weeks of submission. Full model solutions will be provided for problem sheets.