Vertebral endplates: A finite element analysis

Abstract

<p>Endplates of a vertebral body are crucial to the performance of the spinal column. The vertebral end plate acts a boundary for the intervertebral disc so that it does not herniate into the body of the vertebrae. Stresses throughout the disc are increased as a result of the disc extrusion. The end plate allows this extrusion by increasing porosity, which occurs naturally with age. The end plate has multiple layers however is typically not modeled as such. It is comprised of a porous bony plate, a hyaline cartilage layer and the remains of the epiphysis plate also known as the growth plate. In most simulations the end plate is treated as a homogenous layer due to its relative thickness of about a millimeter. Due to the thickness of the end plate and the boundary conditions supporting the endplate finite element methods are used to analyze the end plate for stresses and strains. This report will attempt to analyze the endplate with multiple layers including the cartilaginous and bone parts of the end plate. The cortical bone on the periphery of the vertebral body will support the end plates. To model increasing porosity via fracture the end plate will be adjusted geometrically according to increased porosity and the stress and strain will be compared. Several methods are available to fix the damage caused by the fracture of the end plate and increases herniation. Fusion and disc arthroplasty are two orthopedic options for correction. A comparative study of fixation devices and disc replacements will also be included in this study. The goal of this study will be to further understand the biomechanics of the vertebral body end plates. Also an investigation will be conducted into the orthopedic treatment options available for intervertebral disc arthroplasty or fusion.</p><p>This presentation occurred at the Wright State University Campus-Wide Celebration of Research, Scholarship and Creative Activities on April 16, 2010</p>