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376-1397-00L 3 Credits BSC , MSC , NDS D-HEST , D-MAVT , D-PHYS , D-ITET

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Orthopaedic Biomechanics

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Ralph Müller, Penny Atkins, Dr. Johann Schwiedrzik

Number of participants limited to 48.

VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:42:06

Abstract

This course is aimed at studying the mechanical and structural engineering of the musculoskeletal system alongside the analysis and design of orthopaedic solutions to musculoskeletal failure.

Objective

To apply engineering and design principles to orthopaedic biomechanics, to quantitatively assess the musculoskeletal system and model it, and to review rigid-body dynamics in an interesting context.

Content

Engineering principles are very important in the development and application of quantitative approaches in biology and medicine. This course includes a general introduction to structure and function of the musculoskeletal system: anatomy and physiology of musculoskeletal tissues and joints; biomechanical methods to assess and quantify tissues and large joint systems. These methods will also be applied to musculoskeletal failure, joint replacement and reconstruction; implants; biomaterials and tissue engineering.

Resources

Lecture Notes

Stored on Moodle.

Literature

Orthopaedic Biomechanics: Mechanics and Design in Musculoskeletal Systems Authors: Donald L. Bartel, Dwight T. Davy, Tony M. Keaveny Publisher: Prentice Hall; Copyright: 2007 ISBN-10: 0130089095; ISBN-13: 9780130089090

Learning Materials (Links)

Main link
Course related material

General Information

Language: English
Levels: BSC , MSC , NDS
Frequency: Yearly recurring

Examination

Type: session examination
Mode: oral 30 minutes

The lecture will be complemented by moodle-based questionnaires and exercises, which may be completed both during the official lecture times as well as at home. Students can receive a bonus of 0.25 grade points for these assignments, which can be credited against the final grade of the exam. The maximum grade 6 for the lecture can also be achieved if only the session exam is completed. In the case of a possible examination repetition, the performance during the course is taken over by default. If this is not desired, the lecture must be retaken.

Registration & Places

Max Places: 48

Course Components

Type	Title	Time & Place	Hours
lecture with exercise	Orthopaedic Biomechanics	Mon 14:45-16:30 (HCP E 47.3)	2 h weekly

Offered In

Mechanical Engineering Master
- Core Courses
  - Bioengineering (The courses listed in this category “Core Courses” are recommended. Alternative courses can be chosen in agreement with the tutor.)
Biomedical Engineering Master
- Major Courses
  - Bioelectronics
    - Recommended Elective Courses (These courses are particularly recommended for the Bioelectronics track. Please consult your track adviser if you wish to select other subjects.)
  - Bioimaging
    - Recommended Elective Courses (These courses are particularly recommended for the Bioimaging track. Please consult your track adviser if you wish to select other subjects.)
  - Biomechanics
    - Track Core Courses (During the Master program, a minimum of 12 CP must be obtained from track core courses.)
MAS in Medical Physics
- Specialization: General Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering
  - Major in Biomechanics
    - Core Courses
Health Sciences and Technology Master
- Major in Human Movement Science and Sport
  - Electives
    - Elective Courses II
- Major in Medical Technology
  - Electives
    - Elective Courses II
Human Medicine Bachelor
- Courses in Medical Sciences
  - Compensatory Courses