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Biomechanical analysis and design of a dynamic spinal fixator using topology optimization: a finite element analysis

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Abstract

Surgeons often use spinal fixators to manage spinal instability. Dynesys (DY) is a type of dynamic fixator that is designed to restore spinal stability and to provide flexibility. The aim of this study was to design a new spinal fixator using topology optimization [the topology design (TD) system]. Here, we constructed finite element (FE) models of degenerative disc disease, DY, and the TD system. A hybrid-controlled analysis was applied to each of the three FE models. The rod structure of the topology optimization was modelled at a 39 % reduced volume compared with the rigid rod. The TD system was similar to the DY system in terms of stiffness. In contrast, the TD system reduced the cranial adjacent disc stress and facet contact force at the adjacent level. The TD system also reduced pedicle screw stresses in flexion, extension, and lateral bending.

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Acknowledgments

This work was supported by a Grant (NSC 101-2314-B-075-001-MY3) from the National Science Council.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan

    Hung-Ming Lin & Yung-Ning Pan

  2. Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan

    Chien-Lin Liu

  3. Department of Medical Research, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Tamshui District, New Taipei City, Taiwan

    Chang-Hung Huang

  4. Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Zhong-Xing Branch of Taipei-City Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan

    Shih-Liang Shih

  5. Department of Physical Therapy and Assistive Technology, National Yang-Ming University, 155, Sec. 2, Li-Nung St., Taipei, 112, Taiwan

    Shun-Hwa Wei & Chen-Sheng Chen

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  1. Hung-Ming Lin
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Correspondence to Chen-Sheng Chen.

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Lin, HM., Liu, CL., Pan, YN. et al. Biomechanical analysis and design of a dynamic spinal fixator using topology optimization: a finite element analysis. Med Biol Eng Comput 52, 499–508 (2014). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11517-014-1154-x

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11517-014-1154-x

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