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Orthopaedic Proceedings
Vol. 96-B, Issue SUPP_11 | Pages 74 - 74
1 Jul 2014
Brandolini N Kapur N Hall R
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Summary Statement

Burst fractures were simulated in vitro on human cadaveric spine segments. Displacement of the facet joints and pedicles were measured throughout the fracture process showing how these bony structures behave when an impact load is delivered.

Introduction

Burst fractures account for almost 30% of all spinal injuries, which may result in severe neurological deficit, spinal instability and hence life impairment1. The onset of the fracture is usually traumatic, caused by a high-energy impact loading. Comminution of the endplates and vertebral body, retropulsion of fragments within the canal and increase of the intrapedicular distance are typical indicators of the injury. Experimental and numerical studies have reported strain concentration at the base of the pedicles, suggesting that the posterior processes play a fundamental role in the fracture initiation2,3. However, little is known about the dynamic behaviour of the vertebra undergoing an impact load. The aim of this study was to provide an in vitro cadaveric investigation on burst fracture, focusing on the widening of the facet joints and pedicles during the fracture development.