Chinese Journal Of Clinical Anatomy ›› 2011, Vol. 29 ›› Issue (1): 89-93.

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Finite element analysis into the effect of discectomy on lumbar biomechanical characteristics

LI Hai-bo, FANG Jie, CHEN Qi-xin, LI Fang-cai,TANG Xiao-jun   

  1. Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Medical College, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310009, China
  • Received:2010-04-26 Published:2011-01-24

Abstract:

Objective To investigate the effects on the lumbar biomechanical characteristics caused by the discectomy in the treatment of the lumbar intervertebral disc protrusion using three-dimensional finite element model analysis methods. Methods The new effective CAD methods were adopted to accurately create the L4/5 segment's finite element model and simulate the normal disc, the degenerated disc, the denucleated disc immediately after operation as well as the postoperative disc in a long run; their biomechanical characteristics were also compared. Results ⑴The stiffness of the denucleated model, compared with the normal one, was reduced; ⑵the stiffness of lumbar segment drastically rose and even surpassed that of the degenerated one due to the fact that the scar tissue has been full into intra-disc cavity.⑶The facet contact force was decreased in discectomy model and the scar growth model was increased. Conclusion There is small impact on lumbar stability and posterior structure after discectomy immediately. The lumbar motion segment may stiffen and the stress of articular process may increase after discectomy in a long run.

Key words: Discectomy, Lumbar, Biomechanical Characteristics, Finite Element

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