A FEM Model Analysis of Human Lumbar Spine With Bi-Level Artificial Disc Replacement

A finite element model of human lumbar spine (L3-S1 segment) was used to analyze biomechanical effects of the bi-level CHARITE artificial disc replacement (2LCHD) at L4-L5 and L5-S1 levels. The mechanical behavior and range of motion in implanted and intact models were compared using the finite element analyses and a hybrid loading protocol. In 2LCHD model the changes at L3-L4 level decreased by 25% also the model showed smooth changes in motion at implanted levels. In flexion there was an increase in facet loads at lower levels of 2LCHD however the bending moment in this model was less than intact model because of hybrid loading; in contrast, the facet loads in implanted model decreased in extension. It was observed that the bi-level disc replacement won’t affect much the kinematics of the spine and can be proposed as a good alternative for treatment in cases that disc degeneration occurs at more than one level of spine.