[Finite element analysis of lumbar facet joint contact model].
OBJECTIVE
To establish a finite element model of the fourth and fifth lumber segments in order to analyze the biomechanical characteristics of facet joints under different pressure loads.


METHODS
CT sectional images of L(4-5) segments were obtained to construct a finite element model, adopting contact model to simulate the condition the superior and inferior facets were in.


RESULTS
The facet joint exhibited different performances under different conditions, and more loads was forced on it when the model was twirled.


CONCLUSIONS
The facet joints should be simulated as in condition of contact to help correct understanding of the biomechanical characteristics of the spinal segment.
Zhang
Mei-chao
MC
Key Lab of Medical Biomechanics of PLA, First Military Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China. mc_zhang@21cn.com
Xiao
Jin
J
Li
Yi-kai
YK
Zhong
Shi-zhen
SZ
D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D003196:Computer Graphics; D020342:Finite Element Analysis; D006801:Humans; D008159:Lumbar Vertebrae / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000502:physiology; D008953:Models, Anatomic; D036542:Tomography, Spiral Computed