Mechanism of thoracolumbar burst fractures: a biomechanical study.
OBJECTIVE
To investigate the mechanism associated with thoracolumbar burst fractures.


METHODS
Stress distribution of the spine in the upright, flexion and extension positions was analyzed using a three-dimensional finite element model of the spinal motion segment.


RESULTS
Stress concentration was noted at the pedicle and posterosuperior part of the vertebral body near the pedicle.


CONCLUSIONS
Stress concentration of the spine may be implicated in the biomechanical mechanism underlying thoracolumbar burst fractures.
Dai
Liyang
L
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Second Medical University, Shanghai 200092, China. lydai@ihw.com.cn
D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional; D008159:Lumbar Vertebrae / Q000293:injuries*; D008954:Models, Biological; D016103:Spinal Fractures / Q000209:etiology*; D013904:Thoracic Vertebrae / Q000293:injuries*