The finite element modeling and analysis of human lumbar segment herniation

Abstract

Objective To study the biomechanical character of intervertebral disc in different loadings of axial compression, flexion, lateral bending, extension, rotation to develop the finite element (FE) of human lumbar L3-5 segment. Methods According to CT radiological data of a healthy adult, the vertebra and intervertebral disc of lumbar L3-5 segment were respectively reconstructed by Mimics 10.0 software and Geomagic 10.0 software. The FE model of L3-5 segment was reconstructed, and intact disc and herniated lumbar disc were created by adding the lumbar attaching ligaments into the simulating model and changing the corresponding material properties after the disc was extruded in Ansys software. The biomechanical characteristics of two models were simulated under the five loadings of axial compression, flexion, lateral bending, extension and rotation by FE method. Results After the L3, 4 lumbar disc was extruded, the stress distribution on the disc and the ability of load transfer were changed. The stress was concentrated in the posterior lateral of annulus fibrous. Conclusion After the disc was extruded, the load⁃ bearing capacity decreased. DOI：10.3969/j.issn.1672⁃6731.2012.04.005

Keywords

• Lumbar vertebrae
• Biomechanics
• Intervertebral disk displacement
• Stress, mechanical
• Finite element analysis