Comparison of the failure biomechanics of spinal fixation devices. Neurosurgery 1985 Oct;17(4):574-80
Date
10/01/1985Pubmed ID
4058692DOI
10.1227/00006123-198510000-00007Scopus ID
2-s2.0-0022397344 (requires institutional sign-in at Scopus site) 8 CitationsAbstract
The failure biomechanics of Harrington distraction rods, modified Weiss springs, and Luque rods were studied in intact cadavers and isolated spinal columns using flexion-compression loading. Most spines fractured at T-11 or T-12 at applied loads ranging between 556 and 4220 newtons (mean = 1833 N). After Harrington distraction rod placement, the same spines failed at a mean load of 859 N (42% of control), always as a result of hook extrusion and often including lamina fracture (seven cases). When modified Weiss springs were used, the spines failed at a mean load of 1128 N (54% of control) by allowing the spine to bend to the initial failure angle; in most instances, deformities resolved when the load was reduced. Luque rods were tested in four specimens; these provided the most rigid stabilization and failed at 83% of control values. Modified Weiss springs often maintain spinal stability better than Harrington distraction rods.
Author List
Maiman DJ, Sances A Jr, Larson SJ, Myklebust JB, Chilbert MA, Nesemann SP, Flatley TJMESH terms used to index this publication - Major topics in bold
AgedBiomechanical Phenomena
Fracture Fixation, Internal
Humans
Lumbar Vertebrae
Male
Middle Aged
Orthopedic Fixation Devices
Thoracic Vertebrae