Analysis of the influence of nucleotomy on lumbar degeneration of the operated level using the finite element method.
OBJECTIVE
To determine whether nucleotomy may aggravate lumbar degeneration at the operated level.


METHODS
A normal healthy finite element model, two degeneration models and corresponding nucleotomy models of the L4-5 segment were created. Combined with 800 N preloading, 10 Nm moment was applied on the L4 superior endplate to simulate extension, flexion, left axial rotation and lateral bending, respectively. The shear stress of annulus fibrosus, posterior annulus bulge along with the contact force of facet joint at L4-5 were investigated.


RESULTS
In all loading directions, the shear stress and contact force of the facet joint in two nucleotomy models were higher than those in mildly or moderately degenerative models, while the posterior annulus bulge was lower than those in mildly or moderately degenerative models.


CONCLUSIONS
Nucleotomy may adversely aggravate lumbar degeneration at the operated level.
Yidu Central Hospital of Weifang, Department of Orthopaedics, Qingzhou, Shandong Province, China.
Honglei
H
Dou
Shujie
S
Tang
D000328:Adult; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena / Q000502:physiology; D020342:Finite Element Analysis; D006801:Humans; D007403:Intervertebral Disc / Q000601:surgery*; D008159:Lumbar Vertebrae / Q000601:surgery*; D008161:Lumbosacral Region / Q000473:pathology*; D008297:Male; D013314:Stress, Mechanical; D021801:Zygapophyseal Joint / Q000601:surgery*