Disc Structural Mechanics
Structural mechanics using intact bone-disc-bone motion segments allow for native boundary conditions without disrupting the structural integrity of the tissue. In an intact disc, the nucleus pulposus and annulus fibrosus interact together to stabilize and support the spine. Preserving these interactions provides for a more complete representation of the mechanics of the intervertebral disc. Our group utilizes MRI and finite element analysis to analyze the following:
- Non-invasively study the internal disc mechanics in three dimensions
- Quantify internal tissue strain maps in response to various loading regimes using high field microMRI and image registration analysis
- Combine with constitutive models and finite element analysis to quantify stress and material properties
- Study effect of degeneration, surgery, implants, and other treatments on disc mechanics
- Analyze effects of decreased glycosaminoglycan content on mechanical properties
- Quantify strain and stress around radial and circumferential tears in the annulus fibrosus which can possibly lead to further degeneration, pain, and debilitation
