Chinese Journal of Tissue Engineering Research ›› 2010, Vol. 14 ›› Issue (4): 594-597.doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2010.04.006

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Reconstruction of a three-dimensional finite element model of lower thoracic vertebrae using CT in combination with reverse engineering software

Li Xiao-he 1, 2, Li Zhi-jun2, Li Shao-hua3, Xu Da-chuan1, You Bo4, Wang Xing2   

  1. 1 Institute of Clinical Anatomy, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou   510515, Guangdong Province, China; 2 Department of Anatomy, Basic Medical School, Inner Mongolia Medical College, Hohhot 010059, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China; 3 Department of Anatomy, Guangdong Medical College, Dongguan   523808, Guangdong Province, China; 4 College of Mechanical Engineering, Xinjiang University, Urumchi   830003, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
  • Online:2010-01-22 Published:2010-01-22
  • Contact: Li Zhi-jun, Professor, Master’s supervisor, Department of Anatomy, Basic Medical School, Inner Mongolia Medical College, Hohhot 010059, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China lizhijunmail@sina.com
  • About author:Li Xiao-he☆, Studying for doctorate, Lecturer, Department of Anatomy, Basic Medical School, Inner Mongolia Medical College, Hohhot 010059, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China; Institute of Clinical Anatomy, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China lixiaohe12@hotmail.com
  • Supported by:

    the Science and Technology Program of Guangdong Province, No. 2008B030301030*; the National Natural Science Foundation of China, No. 30660072*; the Natural Science Foundation of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, No. 2009MS1112*

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Abstract:

BACKGROUND: Studies of spinal biomechanics are conducted based on three-dimensional finite element model. The biomechanics of lower thoracic vertebra requires accurate and precise finite element models due to its structural characteristics. Currently, cervical and lumbar finite element models have been explored, but the studies of lower thoracic vertebra remains unclear. 
OBJECTIVE: Using reverse engineering software to reconstruct three-dimensional finite element model of lower thoracic vertebra, to lay a foundation for further biomechanical research.
METHODS: Imaging samples of one case with no spinal disease or osteoporosis were selected from Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical College. Informed content was obtained. Using non-spinal-disease CT data, three-dimensional finite element model of lower thoracic vertebrae and intervertebral discs were reconstructed with Mimics, Gomagic and Ansys softwares.
RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Using reverse engineering software in combination with CT technique, the three-dimensional finite element model of lower thoracic vertebrae was reconstructed. The model accurately showed their anatomic characteristics and discrimination of inner structure. The lower thoracic vertebrae was divided into 112 540 tetrahedron elements. Results show that using reverse engineering software, a three-dimensional finite element model of lower thoracic vertebrae was successfully reconstructed, with high efficiency of establishment and simple operation.

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