Biomechanical Analysis of the Cotrel-Dubousset Spine Internal Fixator in Different Load Conditions

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Guglielmino, E. | La Rosa, G. | Russo, T. C.

Affiliations: Institute of Machines, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy | Institute of Orthopedic Clinic, University of Catania, O.V.E. Via Plebiscito, 95124 Catania, Italy

Abstract: The aim of the present research is to analyse the mechanical behaviour of the Cotrel-Dubousset spine internal fixator using numerical and experimental techniques. Simple experimental and numerical models of a spine section (four vertebrae of the thoraco-Iumbar region) were developed in order to evaluate the response of the system, particularly the stress-strain state in the rods, by means of strain-gauge measurements. The system was subjected to combined compressive and bending static loading and the deformations of the system were measured on models simulating physiological and pathological conditions, with and without the fixator.

Keywords: spine, internal fixator, numerical analysis

DOI: 10.3233/BME-1993-3104

Journal: Bio-Medical Materials and Engineering, vol. 3, no. 1, pp. 33-42, 1993