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An exploratory study of loading and morphometric factors associated with specific failure modes in fatigue testing of lumbar motion segments.

Gallagher S; Marras WS; Litsky AS; Burr D

Clin Biomech 2006 Mar; 21(3):228-234

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2005.10.001

20029379

There is currently little information regarding factors associated with specific modes of motion segment failure using a fatigue failure model. Thirty-six human lumbar motion segments were fatigue tested using spinal compressive and shear loads that simulated lifting a 9-kg weight in three torso flexion angles (0, 22.5, and 45 deg). Twenty-five segments failed via fatigue prior to the 10,000 cycle maximum. These specimens were visually inspected and dissected so that the mode(s) of failure could be determined. Failure modes included endplate fractures (classified into nine varieties), vertebral body fractures, and/or zygapophysial joint disruption. Logistic regression analyses were performed to determine whether certain morphometric variables, amount of motion segment flexion, disk degeneration scores, and/or loading characteristics were associated with the occurrence of specific failure modes. Results indicated that stellate endplate fractures were associated with increased posterior shear forces (P<0.05) and less degenerated discs (P<0.01). Fractures running laterally across the endplate were associated with motion segments having larger volumes (P<0.01). Endplate depression was more common in smaller specimens (P<0.01), as well as those experiencing increased posterior shear force (P<0.05). Zygapophysial joint damage was more likely to occur in a neutral posture (P<0.01). These results suggest that prediction of failure modes (e.g., specific endplate fracture patterns) may be possible (at least for older specimens) given knowledge of the spinal loads along with certain characteristics of the lumbar spine.

Back-injuries; Injuries; Injury-prevention; Biomechanics; Low-back-disorders; Fatigue-failure; Torso-flexion; Posture; Age-factors; Age-groups; Health-hazards; Ergonomics; Occupational-health

NIOSH Pittsburgh Research Laboratory, P.O. Box 18070, Pittsburgh, PA 15236

CLBIEW

20060301

Journal Article

SGallagher@cdc.gov

2006

3

0268-0033

PRL

Disease and Injury: Musculoskeletal Disorders of the Upper Extremities

Clinical Biomechanics

PA; OH; FL