Fluid Flow in Bone Workshop

The Cell Biology, Physiology, and Clinical Studies of Bone Fluid Flow

Kenneth McLeod, PhD
Department of Bioengineering
SUNY Binghamton
Binghamton, New York, USA

SESSION ABSTRACT:
Numerous animal studies undertaken over the last 30 years have lent substantial support to the concept that interstitial fluid flow plays a critical role in the growth and adaptation of bone tissue. Our previous studies attempting to understand the effect of mechanical loading in the skeleton has also led us to focus on the role of fluid flow in bone adaptation. Here, we report on a recent series of clinical studies directly addressing interstitial fluid flow effects on the growth and maintenance of bone tissue. Specifically, the influence of the hydrostatic component of blood pressure, which drives fluid extravasation, and the skeletal muscle pump, which prevents fluid accumulation in the tissues, are described.