Chinese Journal of Tissue Engineering Research ›› 2011, Vol. 15 ›› Issue (9): 1557-1561.doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.09.010

Previous Articles     Next Articles

Construction of a three-dimensional finite element model of lower lumbar spine based on computed tomography images and computer aided design 

Fu Yu1, Ruan Di-ke2, Huo Hong-jun1, Yang Xue-jun1, Li Chen-guang3   

  1. 1Department of Spinal Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, Inner Mongolia Medical College,  Hohhot   010030, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
    2Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Navy General Hospital, Beijing  100037, China
    3Aerospace College, Beijing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Beijing  100083, China
  • Received:2010-10-19 Revised:2010-12-02 Online:2011-02-26 Published:2011-02-26
  • About author:Fu Yu★, Master, Attending physician, Department of Spinal Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, Inner Mongolia Medical College, Hohhot 010030, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China 13604714168@163.com
  • Supported by:

    the Science and Technology Foundation of Second Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia of Medical College*

PDF

533

Abstract:

BACKGROUND: Currently, the rapid developments of computer technology and finite element theory provide technical supports for construction of lumbar spine models. The finite element model with high accuracy and reliability provides better platform for clinical biomechanics, such as intervertebral discs, lamina excision, lumbar fusion, and spinal internal fixation materials.
OBJECTIVE: To construct a lumber spine (L3-5) biomechanical model using three-dimensional finite element method.
METHODS: Reconstructing the skeleton through CT scan, recording the edges of image, calibrating in sequence of point, line, face and solid. Mapped-mesh technique was used to obtain the finite element, adopt finite element commercial software package Unigraphics V18.0 was used to study the response of the disc model.
RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The finite element model of lower lumbar spine (L3-5) was reconstructed, which can simulate biomechanical experiment. There were 6 482 nodes and 31 326 units in the model. Based on geometrical shape of model, the mesh generation was reduced minimum utilizing mesh generator, which can not only ensure model accuracy and calculation feasibility, but also meet needs of biomechanical studies. 

CLC Number: