Development of a 3-D Finite Element Model of the Cervical Spine

A semi-automatic procedure has been developed for constructing a three-dimensional finite element model of a ligamentous cervical column incorporating the actual geometric data from the computer-based anatomic images (CT scans) and sequential cryomicrotomy sections. A solid model of the cervical vertebral column, including the intervertebral discs, is reconstructed directly from the sagittal and coronal CT images. The solid model is then discretized into finite elements using a mapped mesh method. Other spinal components, such as ligaments and facet contact articulation surfaces, are defined based on color photographs of the sequential cryomicrotomy sections. Following this methodology, a FE model of the mid-cervical column (C4-C5-C6) was developed and validated against experimental results. The model includes geometrical accuracy of the vertebrae, intervertebral discs (annulus and nucleus pulposus), facet articulation, and the major ligaments (ALL, PLL, ISL, LF and CL).