On the modeling of an intervertebral disc using a novel large deformation multi-shell approach

The objective of this study is to develop an analytical model to predict the stresses and displacements in the lamellae of the intervertebral disc subjected to a compressive force. This is achieved by developing a model based on membrane theory combined to large deformation multishell structural behavior. Equations for longitudinal and circumferential stresses are formulated for each lamella of the anulus fibrosus. Multilamellae interaction is a statically indeterminate problem, which requires equations of compatibility of the displacements of adjacent lamellae to be resolved. The large deformation inherent to soft tissue is considered and the solution is obtained using an iterative process. Elastic interactions with a large deformation is a novelty in analytical modeling of soft tissues. This provides model realism and offers the possibility for new and in-depth investigations. Results are given for longitudinal and circumferential stresses and displacements as well as contact pressures for every lamella of the anulus fibrosus. The analytical results are compared to those of two finite element models. The results suggest that the most highly stressed zone is located on the innermost lamella. Stresses decrease through disc thickness and are at a maximum at the innermost lamella. Circumferential stress is predominant and the difference is less than 5% at any point of the anulus fibrosus when the analytical model is compared to the finite element model using coupled degrees of freedom at the lamellae interface. When compared to the finite element model using contact elements, the difference is below 11%. Contact pressures from the inside to the outside of the anulus fibrosus are shown to decrease nonlinearly. The model presented in this study has demonstrated that it is possible to analytically simulate the complex mechanical behavior of a multishell intervertebral disc subjected to compression, provided some simplifications. Further improvements are suggested to increase model realism and recommendations are given for future experimentation necessary to support both the analytical and numerical models.