[Study on macro- and micro-mechanical properties of bone regenerative tissue during the healing process of spinal...

Following spinal fusion surgery, the mechanical properties of macroscopic bone regenerative tissue and microscopic bone cells during daily activities remain unclear. This study employed a submodel approach to establish connections between bone regenerative tissue and bone cells, simulating human physiological activities to obtain stress-strain data at both macro- and micro-scales across various stages and working conditions. Results indicate that vertical external forces significantly impact bone healing. Patients should minimize large-amplitude forward flexion and right rotation movements during the early healing phase. Once healing is largely complete, appropriate activity is safe, though caution should still be exercised to avoid large-amplitude forward flexion, left rotation, and right lateral flexion movements. This study investigated healing variations in regenerated bone tissue across different end-face orientations, regions, and operational conditions during the healing process. It provides a theoretical basis for developing movement guidelines that promote healing during the postoperative recovery phase for patients who have undergone spinal fusion surgery.