A validated finite element analysis of nerve root stress in degenerative lumbar scoliosis.
Few studies have shown the relationship between the curve pattern and nerve root symptoms in degenerative lumbar scoliosis, and its mechanism remains unclear. We developed a finite element model of two patterns of scoliotic curves (isolated lateral bending curve, lateral bending combined with rotation curve). The stress on the nerve root was calculated on both sides (right and left) of the apex vertebra. In the lateral bending curves without rotation, the compressive nerve root stress on the concave side was greater than the tensile stress on the convex side at the apex vertebra. In contrast, when the segmental rotation of the vertebrae was added to the lateral bending curve, there was significantly higher tensile stress on the convex side, and lower compressive stress on the concave side. To conclude, rotatory listhesis may be an important pathomechanism in the development of neurologic symptoms on the convex side of the curve.
Kim
Ho-Joong
HJ
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Spine center, Kang-Nam Yonserang Hospital, Seoul, Korea.
Chun
Heoung-Jae
HJ
Kang
Kyoung-Tak
KT
Lee
Hwan-Mo
HM
Kim
Hak-Sun
HS
Moon
Eun-Su
ES
Park
Jin-Oh
JO
Hwang
Bo-Hyun
BH
Son
Ju-Hyun
JH
Moon
Seong-Hwan
SH
D020342:Finite Element Analysis; D006801:Humans; D008159:Lumbar Vertebrae / Q000503:physiopathology*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D008959:Models, Neurological; D012600:Scoliosis / Q000503:physiopathology*; D013126:Spinal Nerve Roots / Q000503:physiopathology*; D013314:Stress, Mechanical