Morphometric Measurement of Lower Lumbar Intervertebral Foramina Based on Digital Three-Dimensional Simulation

Area of Science:

• Spinal anatomy and biomechanics
• Medical imaging and simulation
• Minimally invasive surgical techniques

Background:

• Accurate anatomical knowledge of lumbar intervertebral foramina is crucial for safe endoscopic spinal surgery.
• Existing methods for assessing foraminal dimensions may lack precision and individualization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the morphological characteristics of lower lumbar intervertebral foramina using a high-fidelity 3D simulation model.
• To evaluate the utility of this 3D model for guiding endoscopic procedures through the intervertebral foramina.

Main Methods:

• Computed tomography (CT) scans of 100 disease-free individuals were used to create patient-specific 3D lumbar spine models.
• Stereoscopic measurements of longitudinal and transverse foraminal diameters were performed directly on the 3D models.
• Statistical analysis (t-test, ANOVA) was employed to compare measurements based on sex and age.

Main Results:

• Average longitudinal and transverse diameters of the lower lumbar intervertebral foramina decreased in the inferior direction.
• Foraminal dimensions showed no significant differences between sexes or age groups, except for a decrease in longitudinal diameter with advancing age (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

• The developed 3D lumbar vertebrae simulation model accurately represents human lumbar spine anatomy.
• This approach offers precise, individualized, and standardized guidance for endoscopic surgery targeting the lumbar intervertebral foramina.