Ligament Model Fidelity In Finite Element Analysis Of The Human Lumbar Spine PDF Download

The aim of the research was to develop a three-dimensional finite element model to study the biomechanical and kinematic characteristics of the human lumbar spine in flexion. An analytical model of the lumbar spine capable of taking into consideration the actual geometry, non-linear material properties and realistic loading would be of benefit in studying normal biomechanics, as well as in-vivo behavior in injured and surgically altered spines. Fundamental to this approach is an accurate model of the spine. This was achieved by modeling the lumbar segments L2-L4 from Computed Tomography (CT) data and analyzing them under loading conditions that best approximated the human lumbar segments in flexion. An in-vitro study was performed for validation of the finite element model. Human lumbar cadaveric spinal segments (L2-L4) were loaded based on test conditions similar to those defined in the finite element analysis. The results of the cadaver biomechanical study and finite element analysis were compared. The results suggest that the model is a valid approach to assessing the range of motion of the L3 segment under flexion. Rotation under lateral bending moments was additionally investigated to provide a thorough validation of the model.