An Experimentally Validated Mathematical Model of Axial Spinal Compression to Visualize Vertebral Compression Fracture

The finite element analysis (FEA) model established in this study predicts the mechanical behavior of a vertebral body under pure compression loading. Four human and four porcine cadaveric spines were used in the region from T9-T12 (human) and T12-T14 (porcine) to derive biomechanical failure data under pure axial compression. By implementing the data from these axial crush experiments and combining them with computed tomography (CT)-derived three-dimensional (3D) reconstructions of vertebrae, this new model mathematically predicts the behavior of the spine in vertebral compression fractures (VCFs). The development of an accurate mathematical model has the potential to aid surgical intervention of VCFs during vertebroplasty, kyphoplasty, and potentially additional techniques by accurately representing biomechanical behavior. It can be adapted for osteoporosis, fusion, and implant biomechanics cases to improve surgical accuracy. Understanding the vertebral fracture pattern is essential in surgical pre-planning and understanding prior and future risks. The presented method may serve as an additional resource for studying and treating VCF and further supports the use of porcine specimens in spine research.