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Biomechanical evaluation of cervical spine stabilization methods using a porcine model
J D Richman1, T E Daniel, D D Anderson
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.
Spine
|October 15, 1995
Summary
Posterior lateral mass plating offers superior biomechanical stability for cervical spine stabilization compared to anterior plating methods after corpectomy. This approach enhances stability in unstable cervical spine injuries.
Area of Science:
- Spinal biomechanics
- Orthopedic surgery
- Biomaterials science
Background:
- Traditional biomechanical evaluations often use simplified models.
- This study utilizes a more dynamic corpectomy model with cyclic loading for unconstrained motion.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the biomechanical stability of posterior lateral mass plating versus anterior plating (unicortical and bicortical) after cervical corpectomy.
- To evaluate implant performance under cyclic loading conditions.
Main Methods:
- A one-level cervical corpectomy was performed on 21 porcine spines, followed by anterior methacrylate grafting.
- Stabilization was achieved using AO Morscher (unicortical), Caspar (bicortical), or posterior lateral mass plates.
- Cyclic load testing in flexion, extension, and axial rotation was conducted.
Main Results:
- No significant difference in stability between unicortical and bicortical anterior plating.
- Posterior lateral mass plating demonstrated significantly greater stability than anterior methods.
- Bicortical Caspar plating showed a higher incidence of screw loosening.
Conclusions:
- All tested constructs provided stability comparable to or exceeding the intact state.
- Anterior grafting combined with posterior lateral mass plating is recommended for maximum stability in anterior cervical disruption injuries.