A Comparative Biomechanical Analysis of the Impact of Different Configurations of Pedicle-Screw-Based Fixation in Thoracolumbar Compression Fracture. (23rd February 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Szkoda-Poliszuk, Klaudia; Załuski, Rafał
• Other Names: MO Fuhao Academic Editor.
• Is Part Of: Applied bionics and biomechanics. Volume 2022(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-02-23
• Subjects: Bionics -- Periodicals; Biomechanics -- Periodicals; Biomedical engineering -- Periodicals; 003.505
• DOI: 10.1155/2022/3817097
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1176-2322

Abstract

Abstract : The aim of this experimental study was to analyze the impact of applying different configurations of the transpedicular fixation system on selected mechanical parameters of the thoracolumbar spine under conditions of its instability (after simulated fracture). Five study groups were tested: physiological, with compression fracture of the vertebra, with two-segment fixation, with three-segment fixation, and with four-segment fixation. Each of the analyzed study groups was subjected to axial compression, flexion, and extension. Based on the conducted experimental tests, the mechanical parameters, i.e., stiffness coefficient and dissipation energy, were determined for all groups under consideration. The stiffness value of two-segment fixation is significantly lower than the physiological value (during flexion and extension). The use of long-segment fixation considered in two configurations (three- and four-segment fixation) may result in excessive stiffness of the system due to the high stiffness values achieved (approx. 25–30% higher than the physiological values in the case of compression and on average 60% higher in the case of flexion). The use of long-segment fixator design shows better results than short-segment fixation. Considering both biomechanical and clinical aspects, three-segment fixation seems to be a compromise solution as it saves the patient from more extensive stiffening of the spinal motion segments.