Prediction of the compressive strength of human lumbar vertebrae

Brinckmann, P.; Biggemann, M.; Hilweg, D.

Affiliations

¹Institut für Experimentelle Biomechanik, Universität Münster, Münster, West Germany

²Radiologische Klinik und Strahleninstitut Evangelisches Krankenhaus Bethesda, Duisburg, West Germany

Abstract

The compressive strength of 98 specimens of motion segments of human thoracolumbar spines was measured. In addition, the density of the trabecular bone in the midplane of the vertebrae was assessed by quantitative computed tomography (QCT); the size of the vertebral endplates was measured by CT as well. The results show that the compressive strength of thoracolumbar vertebrae can be predicted from the product of density and end-plate area, with an error of estimate of 1 kN. The data of the experiment allow for an In vivo prediction of the strength of vertebrae to quantify the risk of fracture in physically very demanding tasks, to support expert opinion in trauma cases, or to assist in therapeutic decisions in cases of severe osteoporosis.

Links

DOI: 10.1097/00007632-198906000-00012

PubMed: 2749376

WoS: A1989AB88800012

History

Received: 1988-07-07

Revised: 1988-10-24

Accepted: 1988-12-15

Cited Works (7)

Year	Entry
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1988	Biggemann M, Hilweg D, Brinckmann P. Prediction of the compressive strength of vertebral bodies of the lumbar spine by quantitative computed tomography. Skeletal Radiol. June 1988;17(4):264-269.

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