An Approach to Assessment of Strain and Stress Distribution of Intervertebral Disc Using CT Images

We aim to develop a finite element model of human spine of surgical training and planning. A precise three-dimensional geometric model of the intervertebral disc has been first created by segmenting and reconstructing the contour of intervertebral disc in spine CT Images; Then three-dimensional finite element model (FEM) of vertebrae has been established based on the geometric model by setting the parameters of mechanical characteristic and defining the boundary condition; Finally, the stress and strain distribution of lumbar disc segment under different axial compressive loads has been calculated and evaluated. The accuracy of the finite element method model is good based on visual comparison and would be available for analysis to facilitate preoperative planning.