A Finite Element Study on the Treatment of Thoracolumbar Fracture with a New Spinal Fixation System

Abstract

Objective. In this study, the mechanical properties of the new spinal fixation system (NSFS) in the treatment of thoracolumbar fractures were evaluated by the finite element analysis method, so as to provide a mechanical theoretical basis for the later biomechanical experiments and clinical experiments. Methods. T12-L2 bone model was constructed to simulate L1 vertebral fracture, and three models of internal fixation systems were established on the basis of universal spinal system (USS): Model A: posterior short-segment fixation including the fractured vertebra (PSFFV); Model B: short-segment pedicle screw fixation (SSPF); Model C: new spinal fixation system (NSFS). After assembling the internal fixation system and fracture model, the finite element analysis was carried out in the ANSYS Workbench 18.0 software, and the stress of nail rod system, fracture vertebral body stress, vertebral body mobility, and vertebral body displacement were recorded in the three models. Results. The peak values of internal fixation stress, vertebral body stress, vertebral body maximum displacement, and vertebral body maximum activity in Model C were slightly smaller than those in Model B. Conclusions. Compared with the traditional internal fixation system, the new spinal internal fixation system may have the mechanical advantage and can provide sufficient mechanical stability for thoracolumbar fractures.