A three-dimensional finite element model of the cervical spine: an investigation of whiplash injury.
Summary of "A three-dimensional finite element model of the cervical spine: an investigation of whiplash injury."
Very few finite element models of the cervical spine have been developed to investigate internal stress on the soft tissues under whiplash loading situation. In the present work, an approach was used to generate a finite element model of the head (C0), the vertebrae (C1-T1) and their soft tissues. The global acceleration and displacement, the neck injury criterion (NIC), segmental angulations and stress of soft tissues from the model were investigated and compared with published data under whiplash loading. The calculated acceleration and displacement agreed well with the volunteer experimental data. The peak NIC was lower than the proposed threshold. The cervical S- and C-shaped curves were predicted based on the rotational angles. The highest segmental angle and maximum stress of discs mainly occurred at C7-T1. Greater stress was located in the anterior and posterior regions of the discs. For the ligaments, peak stress was at anterior longitudinal ligaments. Each level of soft tissues experienced the greatest stress at the time of cervical S- and C-shaped curves. The cervical spine was likely at risk of hyperextension injuries during whiplash loading. The model included more anatomical details compared to previous studies and provided an understanding of whiplash injuries.
Affiliation
Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin, 300222, China.
Journal Details
This article was published in the following journal.
Name: Medical & biological engineering & computing
ISSN: 1741-0444
Pages:
Links
- PubMed Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21082273
- DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s11517-010-0708-9
Medical and Biotech [MESH] Definitions
Finite Element Analysis
A computer based method of simulating or analyzing the behavior of structures or components.
Cervical Rib
A supernumerary rib developing from an abnormal enlargement of the costal element of the C7 vertebra. This anomaly is found in 1-2% of the population and can put pressure on adjacent structures causing CERVICAL RIB SYNDROME; THORACIC OUTLET SYNDROME; or other conditions.
Reflexotherapy
Treatment of some morbid condition by producing a reflex action, as in the household treatment of nosebleed by a piece of ice applied to the cervical spine. (Stedman, 27th ed)
Models, Statistical
Statistical formulations or analyses which, when applied to data and found to fit the data, are then used to verify the assumptions and parameters used in the analysis. Examples of statistical models are the linear model, binomial model, polynomial model, two-parameter model, etc.
Platybasia
A developmental deformity of the occipital bone and upper end of the cervical spine, in which the latter appears to have pushed the floor of the occipital bone upward. (Dorland, 27th ed)
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