Analysis of simulated single ligament transection on the mechanical behaviour of a lumbar functional spinal unit

The influence of the different lumbar spinal ligaments on intersegmental rotation is not fully understood. In order to explore this effect, a finite element model of the functional spinal unit L3/L4 was loaded with pure moments in the three main anatomic planes. The two extremes--minimum and maximum--ligament stiffness values reported in the literature were applied. After virtual transection of each of the spinal ligaments in turn, the intersegmental rotation and forces in the remaining ligaments were calculated. On flexion, the highest force was found for the posterior longitudinal ligament; on extension and lateral bending for the anterior longitudinal ligament; and on axial rotation for the facet capsular ligament. The strongest influence on intersegmental rotation is exerted by the interspinous ligament on flexion, by the anterior longitudinal ligament on extension and lateral bending, and by the facet capsular ligaments on axial rotation. Ligament stiffness has a strong influence on intersegmental rotation and forces in the ligaments, so that finite element models of spinal segments must be validated by experimental data. This study should help to elucidate the role of the various ligaments.