C2 椎弓根螺钉置入内固定治疗Hangman骨折的生物力学评价

背景:C2椎弓根钉置入内固定治疗Hangman骨折因固定可靠,无生理功能的丢失而受到众多学者的青睐,根据文献报道,单节段固定治疗Hangman骨折的适应证差异较大,并且缺乏生物力学依据.目的:评价C2椎弓根螺钉置入内固定治疗Hangman骨折的生物力学性能.设计、时间和地点:2004-05/08在解放军第一军医大学全军生物力学重点实验室完成的对比观察实验.材料:材料采用AO通用的钛合金颈椎椎弓根螺钉,长度18～25mm,直径3.5 mm.6具新鲜C1～C4颈椎标本依次制成Ⅰ型、ⅡA型和Ⅱ型Hangman骨折模型.方法:椎弓根螺钉固定后在非破坏方式下用脊柱三维运动实验机进行测量,通过加载盘对标本施加2.0 N·m的纯力偶矩,使标本产生前届/后伸、左/右侧弯和左/右轴向旋转6种生理运动:每次测试重复3次加载/卸载循环,在第3次循环时进行运动学测量.主要观察指标:由激光扫描仪(精度0.1%)摄取在零载荷和最大载荷时的脊柱运动图像,并用相应软件系统进行图像分析,计算出标本的三维运动范围.结果:1型骨折C2椎弓根螺钉固定后相对稳定性在屈曲、后伸、侧弯及旋转达到了对照组的100.62%,96.91%,99.19%,97.12%(P＞0.05).ⅡA型骨折C2椎弓根螺钉固定后旋转稳定性达到了对照组的61.86%(P＜0.05).Ⅱ型骨折C2椎弓根螺钉固定后相对稳定性在屈曲、后伸、侧弯及旋转为对照组的47.84%,21.29%,65.98%,41.69%(P＜0.05).结论:生物力学评估提示,Hangman Ⅰ型、ⅡA型骨折基本适合C2椎弓根螺钉置入治疗,置入固定后骨折可达生理性固定或稳定性较好;Ⅱ型骨折固定后稳定性较差,不适合单纯椎弓根钉内固定置入.     

Biomechanical comparison of the stable efficacy of two anterior plating systems

OBJECTIVE: To compare the immediate stable efficacy and load sharing effect of two types of anterior cervical screw-plating instrumentations: the Morscher Synthes titanium locking screw-plate system and the Caspar trapezoidal screw-plate system. DESIGN: Fresh porcine cervical spines with intact, two surgery unstable models, and then reconstructed with or without screw-plating instruments were compared in three physiological loading conditions. BACKGROUND: Two markedly instrumentation systems--Morscher Synthes titanium cervical locking screw-plate and Caspar trapezoidal screw-plate systems are commonly used in management of complex cervical spine disorders. Although the biomechanical study showed that the lower cost Caspar system performed superior in extension before and after plate fatigue, the clinic evaluations of two systems were contradictory. So (1) does the titanium cervical locking plate system pay for its higher cost? and (2) what is the load sharing character of strut graft in one level corpectomy?METHODS: Eight fresh ligamentous porcine cervical spines from C3 to C7 were undergone axial compression, rotation and sagittal flexion tests. The biomechanical experiment was sequentially repeated for the intact, C5-6 discectomy, C5 corpectomy, and then stabilized by either type of plate fixation devices with or without polymethylmethacrylate bone cement grafting. Strains measured by an extensometer across the operated motion segment were used as the index of stability. RESULTS: Analysis of the strain data showed both types of anterior fixation plate systems provided adequate-restored stability for the spinal column only aided with polymethylmethacrylate construction. Statistically, there was no significant difference in biomechanical evaluation for the stability effect between much cost Morscher Synthes plate and Caspar plate system (p<0.005). The spinal disc bore as much as 75% of axial loading. While the strut graft functioned as the disc substitute and spacer, it bore more than 90% of axial loading. In high degree of flexion, the transmitted compressive load was shifted anteriorly to the screw-plate. This might unload the polymethylmethacrylate graft and resulted in the strut graft in tensile fatigue failure. CONCLUSIONS: Statistically both systems showed similar stable efficacy, however, the Morscher Synthes cervical locking plate system might provide better stable effect in higher degrees of flexion motion. The strut graft played as the major load-bearing role in axial compression and sagittal flexion, while in axial rotation, the applied torque was mainly resisted by facet joint and screw-plate system complex. RELEVANCE: The minor discrepancy of two plating systems may be due to the nature of plate geometry and design but not the material properties. Combination of bone graft and either plating systems provides adequate fusion stability under physiological loadings. The high degree flexion may cause the posterior portion of polymethylmethacrylate graft in tensile fracture and then result in polymethylmethacrylate failure in clinic observation.     

Biomechanical comparison of cervical discectomy/fusion model using allograft spacers between anterior and posterior fixation methods (lateral mass and pedicle screw)

BackgroundThe purpose of this study is to investigate effects of different fixation methods on the physical stress on allospacers, endplate-vertebral body, and implants using finite element model analyses.MethodsStress distribution and subsidence risk according to the fixation methods under the condition of hybrid motion control were analyzed. The detailed finite element model of a previously validated, three-dimensional, intact cervical spinal segment model, with C5–C6 segmental fusion using allospacer, was used to evaluate the biomechanical characteristics of different fixation combinations, such as anterior plate/screws, lateral mass screw, and posterior pedicle screw.FindingsThe load sharing on allospacers increased in extension in order of posterior pedicle screws (21.4%), lateral mass screws (31.5%), and anterior plate/screws (56.6%). lateral mass screw demonstrated the highest load sharing (68.1%) on the allospacer in flexion. The Peak von Mises stress of the allospacer was the lowest in flexion and axial rotation but the highest in extension with anterior plate/screws. Allospacer subsidence risk was the lowest in extension, lateral bending, and axial rotation with posterior pedicle screws but the lowest in flexion with anterior plate/screws. The bone-screw loosening risk was the lowest in all modes with posterior pedicle screws but the highest with anterior plate/screws.InterpretationPosterior pedicle screws demonstrated the best mechanical stability of allospacer failure-subsidence and the lowest risk of screw loosening. Different motion restrictions depending on the fixation method should be considered for implant and allospacer safety.     

下颈椎前路内固定联合后路经关节金属螺钉置入固定的生物力学稳定性

背景：对退变性颈椎管狭窄单纯采用前路椎体次全切除或椎间盘切除或单纯后路单开门椎管扩大成行均不能彻底完成脊髓减压和脊柱三柱稳定。目的：探讨下颈椎前路固定联合后路经关节螺钉固定的生物力学稳定性。方法：正常成人尸体颈椎标本,每具分别制作以下两种模型：①经后路C3～C7单开门和下颈椎前路C5椎体次全切除钛网支撑植骨、ORION内固定模型（对照组）。②经后路C3～C7单开门和经关节螺钉内固定及下颈椎前路C5椎体次全切除钛网内植骨、ORION内固定模型（实验组）。结果与结论：实验组在前屈、后伸、左、右侧屈及左、右旋转移位角度均小于对照组（P〈0.001）。提示：①在生物力学实验中,下颈椎前路固定联合后路经关突节螺钉固定的生物力学性能优良,对抗前屈、后伸、左、右旋转的作用力更强,颈椎可获得更可靠的稳定性。②下颈椎前路固定联合后路经关节螺钉固定在对抗颈椎前屈运动时力学稳定性更为强大。     

体外生物力学评价上胸椎前路钛板内固定装置的三维运动稳定性

背景：国内外少见颈前路带锁钢板重建上胸椎的体外生物力学报道。目的：从生物力学角度评价自行研制的上胸椎前路钛板内固定装置。方法：15具成人尸体上胸椎标本分成3组,即上胸椎前路钛板内固定组（B）,颈前路钛板预弯内固定组（C）,颈前路钛板未预弯内固定组（D）。对完整标本进行三维活动度测量,分别安装好各组内固定再次进行标本在前屈、后伸和侧弯及旋转状态下的三维运动稳定性测量,并与完整状态（A）进行对比。结果与结论：在完整状态下B、C、D3组标本的三维运动稳定性差异无显著性意义（P〉0.05）。前屈稳定性排列：B〉D〉C〉完整,B、A之间差异有显著性意义（P=0.012）;后伸稳定性排列：B〉C〉A〉D,B与A,C,D之间差异有显著性意义（P=0.001,0.021,0.01）;旋转状态下的稳定性排列：B〉C〉A〉D,各组差异无显著性意义;侧弯稳定性排列：A〉B〉C〉D,A和C,D之间差异有显著性（P=0.005,0.002）。提示上胸椎前路钛板装置具有较好的三维稳定性,如果采用颈前路钛板内固定建议塑型。     

Biomechanical comparison of a two-level anterior discectomy and a one-level corpectomy,combined with fusion and anterior plate reconstruction in the cervical spine

Background

Common fusion techniques for cervical degenerative diseases include two-level anterior discectomy and fusion and one-level corpectomy and fusion. The aim of the study was to compare via in-vitro biomechanical testing the effects of a two-level anterior discectomy and fusion and a one-level corpectomy and fusion, with anterior plate reconstruction.

Methods

Seven fresh frozen human cadaveric spines (C3–T1) were dissected from posterior musculature, preserving the integrity of ligaments and intervertebral discs. Initial biomechanical testing consisted of no-axial preload and 2 Nm in flexion-extension, lateral bending and axial rotation. Thereafter, discectomies were performed at C4–5 and C5–6 levels, then two interbody cages and an anterior C4–C5–C6 plate was implanted. The flexibility tests were repeated and followed by C5 corpectomy and C4–C6 plate reconstruction. Biomechanical testing was performed again and statistical comparisons among the means of range of motion and axial rotation energy loss were investigated.

Findings

The two-level cage-plate construct had significantly lower range of motion than the one-level corpectomy-plate construct (P ≤ 0.03). Axial rotation energy loss was significantly (P ≤ 0.03) greater for the corpectomy-plate construct than for the two-level cage-plate construct and the intact condition.

Interpretation

A two-level cage-plate construct provides greater stability in flexion, extension and lateral bending motions when compared to a one-level corpectomy-plate construct. A two-level cage-plate is more likely to maintain axial balance by reducing the energy lost in axial rotation.     

滑动椎弓根钉棒系统的研制和生物力学测试

背景:现今临床上常用的椎弓根钉内固定系统为钉棒锁定结构系统,妨碍了处于生长发育期青少年脊柱的纵向生长,所以迫切需要一种能够滑动的椎弓根钉内固定系统.以减少或避免对脊柱生长的影响.目的:对比观察自行研制的滑动椎弓根钉棒系统与传统锁定椎弓根钉棒系统固定脊椎的力学性能.设计:对比观察. 单位:解放军第三军医大学新桥医院骨科,解放军第二一一医院骨科.材料:实验于2007-06-29在哈尔滨工业大学材料科学院完成.自行设计的滑动椎弓根钉棒系统,材质是钛合金,由江苏省常州市武进第三医疗器械厂生产,包括滑动椎弓根钉、矫形棒和横向连接装置三部分.新鲜猪脊椎标本12具,仔细剔除T1～L5椎体所附肌肉,保留主要韧带及后关节突结构的完整性.方法:将标本随机分成滑动组和锁定组,每组6具标本.切除T12椎骨的部分椎板、周围韧带及T11-12、T12～L1椎间双侧小关节造成脊柱失稳,再将滑动椎弓根钉系统和锁定椎弓根钉系统固定于各组的T10, T12,L2椎体上.将标本稳妥安装在夹具内,置于INSTAON-4505轴 向压缩机上.将应变片连接于YJ-31静电电阻应变仪上,模拟人体脊柱载荷并加载于重心点.以便造成前屈、后伸、侧屈、轴向压缩等运动状态.载荷在100,200,300,400,500 N实施分级加载,在不同情况下测量T12椎体的位移.主要观察指标:①在前屈、后伸、侧屈、轴向压缩情况下,主应变及位移变化.②脊柱固定强度和刚度.结果:滑动组和锁定组在屈伸、侧屈、轴向压缩情况下,其主应变、位移变化及固定强度差异均无显著性性意义(P>0.05).结论;滑动椎弓根钉棒系统可以获得与锁定椎弓根钉棒系统相同的生物力学稳定性.滑动椎弓根钉系统将椎弓根钉与矫形棒之间的连接设计为滑动式,使之可随脊柱生长而延长.用于生长发育期脊柱侧凸的的治疗具有可行性.     

Biomechanical investigation of potential prophylactic scoliosis treatments following various sizes of chest wall resection

BackgroundA well-known problematic sequela of chest wall resections is development of scoliosis. Despite the seriousness and frequency of scoliosis following chest well resection, the etiology and biomechanical information needed to understand this progression aren't well-known.MethodsRange of motion of six specimen (C7–L2) was captured using a custom-built six degrees-of-freedom machine in each of three physiological rotation axes. Left posterior ribs were sequentially resected 7cm from the rib head, starting at the 5^th rib and continuing until the 10^th rib. Injured specimen were instrumented with unilateral anterior rod fixation and then with additional unilateral posterior fixation, each starting at T4 and then extended distally as ribs were resected. Relative motion between the constructs' proximal and distal ends was measured in all three axes for the intact, injured, unilateral anterior, and unilateral anterior with unilateral posterior constructs.FindingsRaw motion of the injured specimen increased in a stepwise manner as ribs were resected. Averaged across all injury sizes, the unilateral anterior construct significantly reduced motion by 47.0±13.4% in lateral bending (P=.001). The combined anterior-posterior construct significantly reduced motion by 57.6±15.9% in flexion/extension (P<.001), 70.3±12.2% in lateral bending (P<.001), and 51.1±14.5% in axial rotation (P<.001). Combined anterior-posterior fixation was significantly more stable than anterior-only fixation in flexion/extension (P=.002).InterpretationRegardless of injury size, posterior rib resection did not create significant immediate instability of the thoracic spine. Concurrent spinal stabilization was shown to maintain thoracic spine stability. Combined anterior-posterior fixation proved to be significantly more rigid than an anterior-only construct.     

An antero-lateral submandibular approach to segment C2-C3 of the cervical spine

This article presents the antero-lateral submandibular surgical approach and the application of cervical plates of stabilization of post-traumatic C2-C3 spondylolisthesis. Neither the posterior approach, which does not give an acceptable operating area, nor the anterior approach, which is dangerous and disfiguring for the patient, give a satisfactory outcome in such cases. Results are presented and discussed from two typical operations performed by the author with the antero-lateral submandibular approach and the application of a cervical plate. The article describes the advantages of the author's own modification of the antero-lateral approach, and the application of cervical plates for stabilizing post-traumatic spondylolisthesis at such a high level in the cervical spine, which allows for almost immediate post-surgical mobilization of the patient and effective rehabilitation.     

Effects of surgical joint destabilization on load sharing between ligamentous structures in the thoracic spine: a finite element investigation

Background

In vitro investigations have demonstrated the importance of the ribcage in stabilizing the thoracic spine. Surgical alterations of the ribcage may change load-sharing patterns in the thoracic spine. Computer models are used in this study to explore the effect of surgical disruption of the rib–vertebrae connections on ligament load-sharing in the thoracic spine.

Methods

A finite element model of a T7–8 motion segment, including the T8 rib, was developed using CT-derived spinal anatomy for the Visible Woman. Both the intact motion segment and the motion segment with four successive stages of destabilization (discectomy and removal of right costovertebral joint, right costotransverse joint and left costovertebral joint) were analyzed for a 2000 Nmm moment in flexion/extension, lateral bending and axial rotation. Joint rotational moments were compared with existing in vitro data and a detailed investigation of the load sharing between the posterior ligaments carried out.

Findings

The simulated motion segment demonstrated acceptable agreement with in vitro data at all stages of destabilization. Under lateral bending and axial rotation, the costovertebral joints were of critical importance in resisting applied moments. In comparison to the intact joint, anterior destabilization increases the total moment contributed by the posterior ligaments.

Interpretation

Surgical removal of the costovertebral joints may lead to excessive rotational motion in a spinal joint, increasing the risk of overload and damage to the remaining ligaments. The findings of this study are particularly relevant for surgical procedures involving rib head resection, such as some techniques for scoliosis deformity correction.     

腰椎滑脱不同融合术式的三维有限元研究

目的通过建立腰椎后路椎间(PLIF)和后外侧(PLF)两种融合术的三维有限元模型,比较并判断融合后融合节段的稳定性以椎弓根螺钉和融合器上的应力及椎体位移有无显著性差异。方法利用健康志愿者L1～L5CT扫描的DICOM数据,通过计算机软件重建腰椎模型,进行有限单元网格划分,在腰4/腰5间置入椎弓根钉内固定系统,然后分别在椎间置入融合器生成腰椎后路椎间融合术式三维有限元模型,在横突间植入自体骨生成腰椎后外侧融合术式三维有限元模型。通过对模型进行轴向加压、前屈,后伸、侧弯及轴向扭转五种加载方法进行实验。结果建立L4/L5腰椎滑脱模型及后路腰椎椎间融合及腰椎后外侧融合的有限元模型,①观察对模型分别施加轴向压缩、侧弯、前屈、后伸、旋转载荷,PLF应力多集中在椎弓根钉与钛棒连接处、PLIF内固定系统应力为Cage所分散,未见明显应力集中;②对比在五种载荷下两种不同内固定位移PLIF组均小于PLF,P0.05。结论①建立了L4/L5滑脱不同后路融合术式的三维有限元模型。②在前屈、后伸、压缩、侧弯及扭转载荷下,相比PLF,PLIF位移更小,证实椎体间融合的稳定性优于和椎弓根螺钉内固定加后外侧植骨融合;③PLF应力多集中在椎弓根钉与钛棒连接处、PLIF内固定系统应力为Cage所分散,未见明显应力集中。     

Intervertebral disc herniation: studies on a porcine model exposed to highly repetitive flexion/extension motion with compressive force

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether repeated motion with low magnitude joint forces, and flexion/extension moments consistently produce herniation in a non-degenerated, controlled porcine spine motion segment. DESIGN: Combined loading (flexion/extension motions and compressive forces) was applied to in vitro porcine functional spinal units. Biomechanical and radiographic characteristics were documented. BACKGROUND: While most studies performed in vitro have examined uniaxial or fixed position loading to older specimens, there have been few studies that have examined whether 'healthy' intervertebral discs can be injured by low magnitude repeated combined loading. METHODS: Porcine cervical spine motion segments (C3-C4) were mounted in a custom jig which applied axial compressive loads with pure flexion/extension moments. Dynamic testing was conducted to a maximum of 86400 bending cycles at a rate of 1 Hz with simultaneous torques, angular rotations, axial deformations recorded for the duration of the test. RESULTS: Herniation (posterior and posterior-lateral regions of the annulus) occurred with relatively modest joint compression but with highly repetitive flexion/extension moments. Increased magnitudes of axial compressive force resulted in more frequent and more severe disc injuries. CONCLUSIONS: The results support the notion that intervertebral disc herniation may be more linked to repeated flexion extension motions than applied joint compression, at least with younger, non-degenerated specimens. Relevance. While intervertebral disc herniations are observed clinically, consistent reproduction of this injury in the laboratory has been elusive. This study was designed to examine the biomechanical response and failure mechanics of spine motion segments to highly repetitive low magnitude complex loading.     

Mechanical function of facet joints in the lumbar spine

Sections of human cadaver lumbar spines consisting of the L₃, L₄ and L₅ vertebrae and the intervening discs and ligaments were tested mechanically to determine the effects of simulated spondylolysis and of facet joint fusion. Compression, flexion and extension, lateral bending, axial rotation forces and torques were applied to intact specimens and then after unilateral and bilateral division of the pars interarticularis, and, in a separate group of specimens, after unilateral and bilateral immobilization of the facet joints.Division of the pars interarticularis caused a large increase in axial rotation, and a lesser increase in lateral bending. Other motions were not statistically significantly changed. Facet fixation caused a statistically significant decrease in flexion and extension only. The average anterior or posterior shear motion across the intervertebral discs was less than 1 mm in magnitude in intact specimens, and none of the interventions produced statistically significant changes in this motion accompanying the angular motion.     

颈枕部三维非线性有限元模型的有效性验证

背景：人体组织属性主要表现为非线性,颈枕部的生物力学特点更易受软组织材料属性变化的影响,因此建立非线性有限元模型与人体真实属性更接近. 目的：构建正常成人颈枕部三维非线性有限元模型并验证其有效性. 方法：利用MarConi MX8000多层螺旋CT对健康成人进行颅底-C3段扫描,获取二维图像.直接读入Dicom格式原始图像,图像分割,数据光顺,三维重建后生成颅底-C3节段脊柱三维实体模型;将此模型导入ScanFE模块,进行体网格划分;在ANSYS 10.0软件中直接导入以上三维模型,构建颅底-C3段内韧带单元,模拟韧带力-位移曲线,建立完成颅底-C3段的三维非线性有限元模型.垂直向下方向施加40 N预载荷,1.5 N？m力矩模拟前屈、后伸、侧屈及旋转运动,对比分析实验结果,判断模型应力分布与临床相符度. 结果与结论：构建的三维非线性有限元模型包括663551个单元,178247个节点.施加预载荷及1.5 N？m力矩后,寰枕关节运动范围为前屈13.3°、后伸11.9°、侧屈4.3°、旋转8.7°;寰枢关节运动范围为前屈15.5°、后伸12.6°,侧屈6.4°、旋转30.8°,与尸体标本实验结果相符.从整个模型的纵向应力分布看,在任何相对位置状态下,枢椎齿状突后方的应力均较高,后伸位时应力增高区域加大.上颈椎的应力主要集中于椎管周围,寰椎侧块两端及枢椎横突的应力则较小.对比研究发现,在不同相对工况下前屈、后伸、侧屈、旋转时C2-C3小关节应力均大于钩椎关节,颈枕部三维非线性有限元模型的应力分布特点符合临床实际情况.结果提示应用多层螺旋CT扫描得到的二维图像及simple ware、Ansys10.0软件,建立的颈枕部三维非线性有限元模型符合人体真实的运动规律,可以很好地模拟颈枕部的生物力学特性.     

Validity and Intertester Reliability of Cervical Range of Motion Using Inclinometer Measurements

Abstract

Several procedures have been developed for using inclinometers to measure cervical range of motion. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the validity and reliability of three such methods. The subjects were thirty-four practicing physical therapists. Three individuals, who served as models, had their cervical range of motion measured by the thirty-four physical therapists using a single, double, and stabilization inclinometer method. X-ray films were then taken of the models in flexion, extension, and right and left lateral flexion. A computerized axial tomography scan was used for measuring cervical spine rotation. Results indicate that the single and double methods in flexion and single and stabilization methods in flexion were valid. Inclinometer measurements of cervical flexion, extension, lateral flexion, and rotation were found to be reliable for all three methods with ICCs ranging from .89 to .94. Although inclinometry yields consistent results, there validly is questionable. Sources of error were identified and suggestions given for improving validity and reliability of cervical range of motion while using inclinometers.     

A comparative biomechanical study of a novel integrated plate spacer for stabilization of cervical spine: an in vitro human cadaveric model

Background

Integrated plate-spacer may provide adequate construct stability while potentially lowering operative time, decreasing complications, and providing less mechanical obstruction. The purpose of the current study was to compare the biomechanical stability of an anatomically profiled 2-screw integrated plate-spacer to a traditional spacer only and to a spacer and anterior cervical plate construct. In addition, the biomechanical stability of 2-screw integrated plate-spacer was compared to a commercially available 4-screw integrated plate-spacer.

Methods

Two groups, each of nine cervical cadaver spines (C2–C7), were tested under pure moments of 1.5 Nm. Range of motion was recorded at C5–C6 in all loading conditions (flexion, extension, lateral bending, and axial rotation) for the following constructs: 1) Intact; 2) 2-screw or 4-screw integrated plate-spacer; 3) spacer and anterior cervical plate; and 4) spacer only.

Findings

All fusion constructs significantly reduced motion compared to the intact condition. Within the instrumented constructs, spacer and anterior cervical plate, 2-screw and 4-screw integrated plate-spacer resulted in reduced motion compared to the spacer only construct. No significant differences were found in motion between any of the instrumented conditions in any of the loading conditions.

Interpretation

The application of integrated plate-spacer for anterior cervical discectomy and fusion is based on several factors including surgical ease-of-use, biomechanical characteristics, and surgeon preference. The study suggests that integrated plate-spacer provide biomechanical stability comparable to traditional spacer and plate constructs in the cervical spine. Clinical studies on integrated plate spacer devices are necessary to understand the performance of these devices in vivo.     

Biomechanical comparison of traditional and minimally invasive intradural tumor exposures using finite element analysis

Background

Minimally invasive approaches to intradural pathology have evolved in part in an effort to reduce approach related destabilization of the spine. No biomechanical data exist however evaluating the effects of traditional and minimally invasive exposures.

Methods

A finite element model of the lumbar spine was generated, and a simulated open laminectomy and a modified hemilaminectomy at L4 were performed. Forces were applied to assess changes in flexion, extension, axial rotation, and lateral bending.

Findings

Open laminectomy produced much greater changes in extension, flexion, and axial rotation than the modified hemilaminectomy from the intact. Lateral bending was similarly unaffected for both exposures.

Interpretation

The results suggest that a minimally invasive hemilaminar exposure preserves the structural integrity of the lumbar spine and minimizes alterations to segmental motion postoperatively.     

How does a novel knitted titanium nucleus prosthesis change the kinematics of a cervical spine segment? A biomechanical cadaveric study

BackgroundTotal disc replacement is a possible treatment alternative for patients with degenerative disc disease, especially in the cervical spine. The aim is to restore the physiological flexibility and biomechanical behavior. A new approach based on these requirements is the novel nucleus prosthesis made of knitted titanium wires.MethodsThe biomechanical functionalities of eight human cervical (C4-C7) spine segments were investigated. The range of motion was quantified using an ultra-sound based motion analysis system. Moreover, X-rays in full flexion and extension of the segment were taken to define the center of rotation before and after implantation of the nucleus prosthesis as well as during and after complex cyclic loading.FindingsThe mean range of motion of the index segment (C5/6) in flexion/extension showed a significant reduction of range of motion from 9.7° (SD 4.33) to 6.0° (SD 3.97) after implantation (P = 0.037). Lateral bending and axial rotation were not significantly reduced after implanting and during cyclic loading in our testing. During cyclic loading the mean range of motion for flexion/extension increased to 7.2° (SD 3.67). The center of rotation remained physiological in the ap-plane and moved cranially in the cc-plane (−27% to −5% in cc height) during the testing.InterpretationThe biomechanical behavior of the nucleus implant might lower the risk for adjacent joint disorders and restore native function of the index segment. Further in vivo research is needed for other factors, like long-term effects and patient's satisfaction.     

Increasing posterior tibial slope does not raise anterior cruciate ligament strain but decreases tibial rotation ability

Background

It was investigated whether the strain of the anterior cruciate ligament and tibial kinematics are affected by increasing posterior tibial slope.

Methods

9 human cadaveric knee joints were passively moved between full extension and 120° flexion in a motion and loading simulator under various loading conditions and at 0°, 5°, 10° and 15° posterior tibial slope angles. The anterior cruciate ligament strain and the tibial rotation angle were registered. To assess the influence of posterior tibial slope on the anterior cruciate ligament strain at a fixed flexion angle the anterior cruciate ligament strain was recorded at three different flexion angles of 0°, 30° and 90° while continuously increasing the osteotomy angle from 5° to 15°.

Findings

The anterior cruciate ligament strain was either not affected by the posterior tibial slope angle or, in some load cases, was decreased for increasing posterior tibial slope (P < 0.05). There was a significant decrease of tibial rotation when the posterior tibial slope was increased to 15° for many of the load cases tested (P < 0.05). The mean maximum decrease was from 17.4° (SD 5.7°) to 11.2° (SD 4.7°) observed for flexion-extension motion under 30 N axial load in combination with an internal rotation moment.

Interpretation

The hypothesis that increasing posterior tibial slope results in higher anterior cruciate ligament strain was not confirmed. However, knee kinematics were affected in terms of a reduced tibial rotation. From a biomechanical point of view the data do not support the efficacy of sagittal osteotomies as performed to stabilize anterior cruciate ligament deficient knees.     

Biomechanical evaluation of a dynamic pedicle screw fixation device

BACKGROUND: Recent innovations in dynamic devices have promised a reduction in stress shielding, protection of adjacent segment degeneration, and decreased implant failure. However, there have been few studies comparing the biomechanical properties of a rigid device in comparison to a dynamic posterior fixation device. The purpose of this study was to compare the immediate stability of a new dynamic pedicle screw fixation device with an equivalent rigid device. METHODS: Six thoracolumbar cadaver spines (T10-L4) were fixed in a biomechanical testing frame. Pure moments of 10Nm were loaded in six directions: flexion, extension, right and left lateral bending, and right and left axial rotation. For each spine, four different stages were tested: intact, destabilization of the middle segment, fixation with the dynamic device, and fixation with the rigid device. Ranges of motion were measured using stereophotogrammetry. The specimens with each device were then subjected to flexion-compression loading for five cycles on a MTS 858 Universal Testing Machine. The average stiffness of the last three cycles was recorded. FINDINGS: Both dynamic and rigid devices were found to provide stability for the injured segment in flexion-extension and lateral bending. In axial rotation, the devices could restore the stability to levels similar to those in an intact spine. Results also indicated a slight increase in range of motion in flexion-extension and significant reduction in stiffness of flexion-compression with the dynamic device (P < 0.01), in comparison to the rigid device. INTERPRETATION: The dynamic device offers a system that may alter favorably the movement and load transmission of a spinal motion segment without sacrificing construct stability.