Finite element analysis in treatment of scoliosis / 中国组织工程研究

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND:Scoliosis is a complex spinal pathology characterized as a three-dimensional spine deformity combined with vertebral rotation. The finite element analysis can replace traditional biomechanical experiment for repeated experimental analysis and for processing digital simulation. It has been widely used in the study of scoliotic biomechanics. OBJECTIVE:To emphasize the application of finite element analysis on the brace and surgical treatment of scoliosis. METHODS:An online search of PubMed and Wanfang database was performed by using key words of“scoliosis, finite element”in Chinese for articles published between January 1986 and May 2013. A total of 38 papers related to finite element of scoliotic treatment, published in authorized journal and considered to be a representative, were selected. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: How to design an individualized brace in accordance with biomechanical characteristics of scoliosis is the hot topic. By using multi-imaging technology, the rib, chest bone and pelvis are introduced into the finite element models, in a broader attempt to analyze the optimal three-dimensional orthopedic force pattern for scoliosis. The results of relative research showed that, the ideal loading pattern is given at the protruding area of scoliosis. Finite element analysis can predict and evaluate the orthopedic procedure and effect of patients, thus assisting the design of reasonable orthopedic treatment scheme. Through finite element analysis, we can simulate and analyze the stress distribution of internal fixator in spine, which contributes to prevent the complications.